10-K 1 wrl-20171231x10k.htm 10-K Document

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
ý
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017
OR
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period                    to                     
Commission File No. 000-50028
WYNN RESORTS, LIMITED
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
NEVADA
 
46-0484987
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
3131 Las Vegas Boulevard South—Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(702) 770-7555
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
 
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
 
Nasdaq Global Select Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  ¨    No  ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
 
ý
 
Accelerated filer
 
¨
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer
 
¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company
 
¨
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Emerging growth company
 
¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ¨    
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  ý
The aggregate market value of the registrant's voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates based on the closing price as reported on the Nasdaq Global Select Market on June 30, 2017 was approximately $10.74 billion.
As of February 15, 2018, 103,017,861 shares of the registrant's Common Stock, $0.01 par value, were outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant's Proxy Statement for its 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this report are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.



WYNN RESORTS, LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10-K
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.
Item 15.
Item 16.


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PART I
Item 1. Business

Overview

Wynn Resorts, Limited ("Wynn Resorts," or together with its subsidiaries, "we" or the "Company") is a leading developer, owner and operator of destination casino resorts (integrated resorts) that integrate hotel accommodations and a wide range of amenities, including fine dining outlets, premium retail offerings, distinctive entertainment theaters and large meeting complexes.

We currently own approximately 72% of Wynn Macau, Limited ("WML") and operate two integrated resorts in the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China ("Macau"), Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace (collectively, our "Macau Operations"). In Las Vegas, Nevada, we operate and, with the exception of certain retail space, own 100% of Wynn Las Vegas, which we also refer to as our Las Vegas Operations. We are also currently constructing Wynn Boston Harbor, an integrated resort in Everett, Massachusetts, adjacent to Boston, which we expect to open in mid-2019.

On February 6, 2018, our founder, Stephen A. Wynn ("Mr. Wynn"), resigned as Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chairman of the Board of Directors after allegations of inappropriate personal conduct by Mr. Wynn in the workplace were reported in a January 26, 2018 Wall Street Journal article. In light of the article, on January 26, 2018, the Company's Board of Directors formed a Special Committee comprised solely of independent directors to investigate the allegations against Mr. Wynn. On February 12, 2018, the Special Committee announced that its review was expanded to include a comprehensive review of the Company's internal policies and procedures with the goal of employing best practices to maintain a safe and respectful workplace for all employees. The Board of Directors also announced that its Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is commencing a process to add additional directors to strengthen the composition, skills and experience of the Board of Directors. The Nevada Gaming Control Board (the "NGCB") and the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (the "MGC") have also commenced investigations into the foregoing matters, including suitability with respect to the Company and its licensees. The Company is cooperating with these regulatory reviews. In addition, the Macau Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (the "DICJ") is monitoring and reviewing the situation, and the Company is cooperating. As addressed in this annual report on Form 10-K (this "Form 10-K"), these events create a number of risks and uncertainties that could materially adversely affect the Company's business and prospects. For more information, see Item 1—"Business—Our Strategy," Item 1—"Business — Regulation and Licensing," Item 1A—"Risk Factors," Item 3—"Legal Proceedings," and Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 7, "Long-Term Debt," Note 8, "Related Party Transactions," and Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies—Litigation."

We present the operating results of our three resorts in the following segments: Wynn Macau, Wynn Palace, and Las Vegas Operations. For more information on our segments, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 15, "Segment Information."

Wynn Resorts, a Nevada corporation, was formed in 2002. Wynn Resorts files annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments of such reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Any document Wynn Resorts files may be inspected, without charge, at the SEC's public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20549 or at the SEC's internet site address at http://www.sec.gov. Information related to the operation of the SEC's public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, through our own internet address at www.wynnresorts.com, Wynn Resorts provides a hyperlink to a third-party SEC filing website which posts these filings as soon as reasonably practicable, where they can be reviewed without charge. The information found on our website is not a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or any other report we file or furnish to the SEC.

Our Resorts

Macau Operations

We opened Wynn Macau on September 6, 2006, Encore, an expansion of Wynn Macau, on April 21, 2010, and Wynn Palace on August 22, 2016. We operate our Macau Operations under a 20-year casino concession agreement granted by the Macau government in June 2002. We lease from the Macau government approximately 16 acres of land in downtown Macau's inner harbor where Wynn Macau is located and 51 acres of land in the Cotai area of Macau where Wynn Palace is located. See "Regulation and Licensing—Macau" for details on the casino concession agreement, and see "Item 2—Properties" for details on the land concession agreement.


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Wynn Macau features the following as of February 15, 2018:

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Approximately 273,000 square feet of casino space, offering 24-hour gaming and a full range of games with 316 table games and 988 slot machines, private gaming salons, sky casinos and a poker pit;
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Two luxury hotel towers with a total of 1,008 guest rooms and suites;
•
Eight food and beverage outlets;
•
Approximately 59,000 square feet of high-end, brand-name retail space;
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Approximately 31,000 square feet of meeting and convention space;
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Recreation and leisure facilities, including two health clubs, spas, a salon and a pool; and
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A rotunda show featuring a Chinese zodiac-inspired ceiling along with gold "prosperity tree" and "dragon of fortune" attractions.

Wynn Palace features the following as of February 15, 2018:

•
Approximately 420,000 square feet of casino space, offering 24-hour gaming and a full range of games with 323 table games and 1,115 slot machines, private gaming salons and sky casinos;
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A luxury hotel tower with a total of 1,706 guest rooms, suites and villas;
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11 food and beverage outlets;
•
Approximately 106,000 square feet of high-end, brand-name retail space;
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Approximately 37,000 square feet of meeting and convention space;
•
Recreation and leisure facilities, including a gondola ride, health club, spa, salon and pool; and
•
Public attractions including a performance lake and floral art displays.

In response to our evaluation of our Macau Operations and our commitment to creating a unique customer experience, we have made and expect to continue to make enhancements and refinements to these resorts.

Las Vegas Operations

We opened Wynn Las Vegas on April 28, 2005 and Encore, an expansion of Wynn Las Vegas, on December 22, 2008. Wynn Las Vegas is located at the intersection of the Las Vegas Strip and Sands Avenue, and occupies approximately 215 acres of land fronting the Las Vegas Strip. In addition, we own approximately 18 acres across Sands Avenue, a portion of which is utilized for employee parking and an office building, and approximately five acres adjacent to the golf course land upon which an office building is located.

Wynn Las Vegas features the following as of February 15, 2018:

•
Approximately 192,000 square feet of casino space, offering 24-hour gaming and a full range of games with 247 table games and 1,829 slot machines, private gaming salons, a sky casino, a poker room, and a race and sports book;
•
Two luxury hotel towers with a total of 4,748 guest rooms, suites and villas;
•
33 food and beverage outlets;
•
Approximately 110,000 square feet of high-end, brand-name retail space (of which, 103,000 square feet is owned and operated under a joint venture of which we own 50.1%);
•
Approximately 290,000 square feet of meeting and convention space;
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Three nightclubs and a beach club;
•
Recreation and leisure facilities, including swimming pools, private cabanas, two full service spas and salons, and a wedding chapel; and
•
A specially designed theater presenting "Le Rêve—The Dream," a water-based theatrical production and a theater presenting entertainment productions and various headliner entertainment acts.

In December 2016, we entered into a joint venture arrangement (the "Retail Joint Venture") with Crown Acquisitions Inc. ("Crown") to own and operate approximately 88,000 square feet of existing retail space. In November 2017, we contributed approximately 74,000 square feet of additional retail space to the Retail Joint Venture, the majority of which is currently under

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construction at Wynn Las Vegas. We expect to open the additional retail space in the second half of 2018. For more information on the Retail Joint Venture, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 3, "Retail Joint Venture."

In response to our evaluation of our Las Vegas Operations and our commitment to creating a unique customer experience, we have made and expect to continue to make enhancements and refinements to this resort.
 
Construction and Development Opportunities

We are currently constructing Wynn Boston Harbor, an integrated resort in Everett, Massachusetts, adjacent to Boston along the Mystic River. The resort will contain a hotel, a waterfront boardwalk, meeting and convention space, casino space, a spa, retail offerings and food and beverage outlets. The total project budget, including gaming license fees, construction costs, capitalized interest, pre-opening expenses and land costs, is estimated to be approximately $2.5 billion. As of December 31, 2017, we have incurred approximately $1.13 billion in total project costs. We expect to open Wynn Boston Harbor in mid-2019.

We have begun site preparation and pre-construction activities for the redevelopment of the land previously occupied by the Wynn Las Vegas golf course, which we closed in the fourth quarter of 2017. Phase 1 of the project is expected to include a lagoon and additional meeting and convention space. Based on current designs, we estimate the total project budget for Phase 1 to be approximately $500 million and we expect to open Phase 1 in the first half of 2020.

We continually seek out new opportunities for additional gaming or related businesses, in the United States, and worldwide.

Our Strategy

We believe that Wynn Resorts is the world's preeminent designer, developer, and operator of integrated resorts. The Company's integrated resort business model, pioneered by Mr. Wynn, integrates luxury hotel rooms, high-end retail, an array of dining and entertainment options, meeting space, and gaming, all supported by superior levels of customer service. We believe that our resorts and management continue to benefit from our extensive design and operational experience across numerous gaming jurisdictions, providing a distinct advantage over other gaming enterprises.

Wynn Resorts and its experienced management team have a demonstrated track record in developing and operating successful integrated resort projects around the world. In addition, we have a design, development and construction subsidiary, in which senior management has significant experience across all major construction disciplines.

We aim to build appropriately scaled integrated resorts that attract a wide range of customer segments (including premium international customers) and generate strong financial results. We design and continually refresh our integrated resorts to create unique customer experiences across a wide range of gaming and non-gaming amenities. Our business is dependent upon repeat visitation from our guests. We believe superior customer experience and service is the best marketing strategy to attract and retain our customers. Human resources and staff training are essential to our strategy to ensure our employees are prepared to provide the luxury service that our guests expect.

Our integrated resorts are conceptualized, designed, built and operated in major metropolitan markets to service all customers with an emphasis on providing superior levels of premium customer service. In Las Vegas and Macau, we have been successful in attracting not only a wide range of domestic guests, but also extending our customer market areas into international markets. We leverage our international marketing team across branch offices located in Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and Canada to attract international customers.

Reflecting our commitment to customer service globally, the Company has received the following recognition:

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Collectively, Wynn Resorts earned more Five-Star awards than any other independent hotel company in the world in the official 2018 Forbes Travel Guide Star Rating list.
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Wynn Palace has earned a coveted Five-Star triple crown for its hotel, spa and Sushi Mizumi restaurant on the 2018 Forbes Travel Guide Star Rating list.
•
Wynn Palace is the first and only resort in the world with more than one thousand rooms to receive Five Stars.
•
Wynn Macau continues to be the only resort in the world with eight Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star awards.

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•
Wynn Resorts owns two of the largest Forbes Five-Star hotels in the United States: Wynn Tower Suites (Las Vegas) and Encore Tower Suites (Las Vegas).
•
Wynn Resorts was once again honored as the highest ranking casino resort on FORTUNE Magazine's 2018 World's Most Admired Companies list in the hotel, casino and resort category.

We plan to continue to seek out new opportunities to develop and operate integrated resorts, including related businesses, around the world. Overall, we believe Wynn Resorts has a demonstrated track record of developing integrated resorts that stimulate city- and region-wide economic activity, which we believe includes:

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attracting a wide range of customers to the region, including high-net-worth international tourists;
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driving international tourism for the region;
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raising average hotel room rates in the region;
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extending the average length of stay per visitor;
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complementing existing convention and meeting business with five-star accommodations and appropriately scaled meeting amenities;
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elevating service levels with the execution of five-star customer service; and
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helping stimulate city-wide investment and employment.

Market and Competition

The casino resort industry is highly competitive. Both our Macau Operations and Las Vegas Operations compete with other high-quality casino resorts. Resorts located near our properties compete on the basis of the range of amenities, level of service, price, location, entertainment, themes and size, among other factors. We seek to differentiate our Macau and Las Vegas integrated resorts from other major resorts by delivering superior design and customer service.

Macau

Macau is governed as a special administrative region of China and is located approximately 37 miles southwest of, and approximately one hour away via ferry from, Hong Kong. Macau, which has been a casino destination for more than 50 years, consists principally of a peninsula on mainland China and two neighboring islands, Taipa and Coloane, between which the Cotai area is located. In 2002, the government of Macau ended a 40-year monopoly on the conduct of gaming operations by conducting a competitive process that resulted in the issuance of gaming concessions to three concessionaires (including Wynn Resorts (Macau) S.A., ("Wynn Macau SA")) who in turn were permitted, subject to the approval of the government of Macau, to each grant one subconcession, resulting in a total of six gaming concessionaires and subconcessionaires. In addition to Wynn Macau SA, each of Sociedade de Jogos de Macau ("SJM") and Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited ("Galaxy") are primary concessionaires with Sands China Ltd. ("Sands"), Melco International Development Limited ("Melco") and MGM China Holdings Limited ("MGM China") operating under subconcessions. There is no limit to the number of casinos each concessionaire or subconcessionaire is permitted to operate, but each facility is subject to government approval. Currently, there are 41 casinos operating in Macau.

We believe that the Macau region hosts one of the world's largest concentrations of potential gaming customers. Since the introduction of new casinos starting in 2004, the Macau market has experienced a significant increase in annual gaming revenue and has become the largest gaming market in the world. According to Macau Statistical Information, annual gaming revenues have grown from $2.9 billion in 2002 to $33.1 billion in 2017.

Macau's gaming market is primarily dependent on tourists. Gaming customers traveling to Macau typically come from nearby destinations in Asia. According to the Macau Statistics and Census Service Monthly Bulletin of Statistics, approximately 90% of the visitors to Macau in 2017 came from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Travel to Macau by citizens of mainland China requires a visa.

Government statistics show an increase of 5.4% in Macau tourist arrivals in 2017 compared to 2016, from 31 million to 33 million, which contributed to an increase in annual gaming revenues in Macau from $27.9 billion in 2016 to $33.1 billion in 2017.

The Macau market has experienced tremendous growth in capacity since the opening of Wynn Macau in 2006. As of December 31, 2017, there were 37,100 hotel rooms, 6,419 table games and 15,622 slot machines in Macau, compared to 12,978

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hotel rooms, 2,762 table games and 6,546 slot machines as of December 31, 2006. During 2016, we contributed to the new capacity in the market, with the opening of Wynn Palace in the Cotai area. Several of the current concessionaires and subconcessionaires also opened additional facilities during 2016 and 2017 in the Cotai area and will open additional facilities over the next few years, which will further increase other gaming and non-gaming offerings in the Macau market.

Our Macau Operations face competition primarily from the 39 other casinos located throughout Macau in addition to casinos located throughout the world, including Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Australia, Las Vegas, cruise ships in Asia that offer gaming, and other casinos throughout Asia. If current efforts to legalize gaming in other Asian countries, such as Japan, are successful, our Macau Operations will face additional competition.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the largest gaming market in the United States. During 2017, the economic environment in the gaming and hotel markets improved in Las Vegas, with Las Vegas Strip gaming revenues increasing to $6.5 billion from $6.4 billion in 2016, despite a slight decline in visitation of 1.7%, which was largely driven by renovation projects at a number of properties, decreasing hotel room inventory. During 2017, the average daily room rate and revenue per available room increased 2.9% and 2.1%, respectively, and were partially offset by a 0.5% decrease in occupancy. 

Wynn Las Vegas is located on the Las Vegas Strip and competes with other high-quality resorts and hotel casinos in Las Vegas. Wynn Las Vegas also competes, to some extent, with other casino resorts throughout the United States and elsewhere in the world.

Geographic Data

Geographic data, which aligns with our segment presentation, is reported in Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 15, "Segment Information." Additional financial data about our geographic operations is provided in Item 7—"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."

Regulation and Licensing

On February 6, 2018, Mr. Wynn resigned as CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors after allegations of inappropriate personal conduct by Mr. Wynn in the workplace were reported in a January 26, 2018 Wall Street Journal article. In light of the article, on January 26, 2018, the Company's Board of Directors formed a Special Committee comprised solely of independent directors to investigate the allegations against Mr. Wynn. On February 12, 2018, the Special Committee announced that its review was expanded to include a comprehensive review of the Company's internal policies and procedures with the goal of employing best practices to maintain a safe and respectful workplace for all employees. The Board of Directors also announced that its Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is commencing a process to add additional directors to strengthen the composition, skills and experience of the Board of Directors. The NGCB and the MGC have also commenced investigations into the foregoing matters, including suitability with respect to the Company and its licensees. The Company is cooperating with these regulatory reviews. In addition, the DICJ is monitoring and reviewing the situation, and the Company is cooperating. As discussed further below, each of these regulatory authorities has extensive power to license and oversee the operations of our casino resorts.

Macau

General. As a casino concessionaire, Wynn Macau SA is subject to the regulatory control of the government of Macau. The government has adopted Laws and Administrative Regulations governing the operation of casinos in Macau. Only concessionaires or subconcessionaires are permitted to operate casinos. Subconcessions may be awarded subject to the approval of the Macau government and each concessionaire has issued one subconcession. Each concessionaire was required to enter into a concession agreement with the Macau government which, together with the Law and Administrative Regulations, form the framework for the regulation of the activities of the concessionaire.

Under the Law and Administrative Regulations, concessionaires are subject to suitability requirements relating to background, associations and reputation, as are stockholders of 5% or more of a concessionaire's equity securities, officers, directors and key employees. The same requirements apply to any entity engaged by a concessionaire to manage casino operations. Concessionaires are required to satisfy minimum capitalization requirements, demonstrate and maintain adequate financial capacity to operate the concession and submit to continuous monitoring of their casino operations by the Macau government. Concessionaires also are subject to periodic financial reporting requirements and reporting obligations with respect to, among other things, certain contracts, financing activities and transactions with directors, financiers and key

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employees. Transfers or the encumbering of interests in concessionaires must be reported to the Macau government and are ineffective without government approval.

Each concessionaire is required to engage an executive director who must be a permanent resident of Macau and the holder of at least 10% of the capital stock of the concessionaire. The appointment of the executive director and of any successor is ineffective without the approval of the Macau government. All contracts placing the management of a concessionaire's casino operations with a third party also are ineffective without the approval of the Macau government.

Concessionaires are subject to a special gaming tax of 35% of gross gaming revenue, and must also make an annual contribution of up to 4% of gross gaming revenue for the promotion of public interests, social security, infrastructure and tourism. Concessionaires are obligated to withhold applicable taxes, according to the rate in effect as set by the government, from any commissions paid to gaming promoters. The withholding rate may be adjusted from time to time.

Concession Agreement. The concession agreement between Wynn Macau SA and the Macau government required Wynn Macau SA to construct and operate one or more casino gaming properties in Macau, including, at a minimum, one full-service casino resort by the end of December 2006, and to invest not less than a total of 4 billion Macau patacas (approximately $500.0 million) in Macau-related projects by June 2009. These obligations were satisfied upon the opening of Wynn Macau in 2006.

Wynn Macau SA was also obligated to obtain, and did obtain, a 700.0 million Macau pataca (approximately $87.0 million) bank guarantee from Banco National Ultramarino, S.A. ("BNU") that was effective until March 31, 2007. The amount of this guarantee was reduced to 300 million Macau patacas (approximately $37.3 million) for the period from April 1, 2007 until 180 days after the end of the term of the concession agreement. This guarantee, which is for the benefit of the Macau government, assures Wynn Macau SA's performance under the casino concession agreement, including the payment of premiums, fines and indemnity for any material failure to perform the concession agreement. Wynn Macau SA is obligated, upon demand by BNU, to promptly repay any claim made on the guarantee by the Macau government. BNU is currently paid an annual fee by Wynn Macau SA for the guarantee of approximately 2.3 million patacas (approximately $0.3 million).

Effective June 24, 2017, the government of Macau may redeem the concession and in such event, Wynn Macau SA will be entitled to fair compensation or indemnity. The amount of such compensation or indemnity will be determined based on the amount of gaming and non-gaming revenue generated during the tax year prior to the redemption multiplied by the remaining years before expiration of the concession.

The government of Macau may unilaterally rescind the concession if Wynn Macau SA fails to fulfill its fundamental obligations under the concession agreement. The concession agreement expressly provides that the government of Macau may unilaterally rescind the concession agreement if Wynn Macau SA:

•
conducts unauthorized games or activities that are excluded from its corporate purpose;
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abandons or suspends gaming operations in Macau for more than seven consecutive days (or more than 14 days in a civil year) without justification;
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defaults in payment of taxes, premiums, contributions or other required amounts;
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does not comply with government inspections or supervision;
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systematically fails to observe its obligations under the concession system;
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fails to maintain bank guarantees or bonds satisfactory to the government;
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is the subject of bankruptcy proceedings or becomes insolvent;
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engages in serious fraudulent activity, damaging to the public interest; or
•
repeatedly and seriously violates applicable gaming laws.

If the government of Macau unilaterally rescinds the concession agreement for one of the reasons stated above, Wynn Macau SA will be required to compensate the government in accordance with applicable law, and the areas defined as casino under Macau law and all of the gaming equipment pertaining to the gaming operations of Wynn Macau SA will be transferred to the government without compensation. In addition, the government of Macau may, in the public interest, unilaterally terminate the concession at any time, in which case Wynn Macau SA would be entitled to reasonable compensation.

The government of Macau may assume temporary custody and control over the operation of a concession in certain circumstances. During any such period, the costs of operations must be borne by the concessionaire. The government of Macau also may redeem a concession starting at an established date after the entering into effect of a concession.


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The Macau government has publicly commented that it is studying the process by which gaming concessions and subconcessions will be renewed. Our gaming concession ends in 2022 along with Galaxy's, Sands' and Melco's concessions. SJM's and MGM China's concessions will end in 2020.

Gaming Promoters. A gaming promoter, also known as a junket representative, is a person or entity who, for the purpose of promoting casino gaming activity, arranges customer transportation and accommodations, and provides credit in their sole discretion, food and beverage services and entertainment in exchange for commissions or other compensation from a concessionaire. Macau law provides that gaming promoters must be licensed by the Macau government in order to do business with and receive compensation from concessionaires. For a license to be obtained, direct and indirect owners of 5% or more of a gaming promoter (regardless of its corporate form or sole proprietor status), its directors and its key employees must be found suitable. Applicants are required to pay the cost of license investigations, and are required to maintain suitability standards during the period of licensure. The term of a gaming promoter's license is one calendar year, and licenses can be renewed for additional periods upon the submission of renewal applications. Natural person junket representative licensees are subject to a suitability verification process every three years and business entity licensees are subject to the same requirement every six years. The DICJ implemented certain instructions in 2009, which have the force of law, relating to commissions paid to, and by, gaming promoters. Such instructions also impose certain financial reporting and audit requirements on gaming promoters.

Under Macau law, licensed gaming promoters must identify outside contractors who assist them in their promotion activities, and these contractors are subject to approval of the Macau government. Changes in the management structure of business entity gaming promoters' licensees must be reported to the Macau government and any transfer or the encumbering of interests in such licensees is ineffective without prior government approval. To conduct gaming promotion activities, licensees must be registered with one or more concessionaires and must have written contracts with such concessionaires, copies of which must be submitted to the Macau government.

Macau law further provides that concessionaires are jointly responsible with their gaming promoters for the gaming activities of such representatives and their directors and contractors in the concessionaire's casinos, and for their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Concessionaires must submit annual lists of their gaming promoters, and must update such lists on a quarterly basis. The Macau government may designate a maximum number of gaming promoters and specify the number of gaming promoters a concessionaire is permitted to engage. Concessionaires are subject to periodic reporting requirements with respect to commissions paid to their gaming promoters' representatives and are required to oversee their activities and report instances of unlawful activity.

In late 2015, the Macau government implemented enhanced accounting and financial procedures and requirements to be followed by gaming promoters. These enhanced procedures require gaming promoters to disclose more detailed financial and accounting information to the DICJ, including the disclosure of certain financial information on a monthly basis. Gaming promoters also must identify and nominate senior financial or accounting representatives to be available to the DICJ for any follow-up matters the DICJ may require.

Nevada

Introduction. The ownership and operation of casino gaming facilities in the State of Nevada are subject to the Nevada Gaming Control Act and the regulations made thereunder, as well as to various local ordinances. Our Las Vegas Operations are subject to the licensing and regulatory control of the Nevada Gaming Commission ("NGC"), the NGCB and the Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing Board ("CCLGLB"), which we refer to herein collectively as the "Nevada Gaming Authorities."

Policy Concerns of Gaming Laws. The laws, regulations and supervisory procedures of the Nevada Gaming Authorities are based upon declarations of public policy. Such public policy concerns include, among other things:

•
preventing unsavory or unsuitable persons from being directly or indirectly involved with gaming at any time or in any capacity;
•
establishing and maintaining responsible accounting practices and procedures;
•
maintaining effective controls over the financial practices of licensees, including establishing minimum procedures for internal fiscal affairs and safeguarding assets and revenue, providing reliable recordkeeping and requiring the filing of periodic reports with the Nevada Gaming Authorities;
•
preventing cheating and fraudulent practices; and
•
providing a source of state and local revenue through taxation and licensing fees.

Changes in applicable laws, regulations and procedures could have significant negative effects on our Las Vegas gaming operations and our financial condition and results of operations.

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Owner and Operator Licensing Requirements. Our subsidiary, Wynn Las Vegas, LLC, the owner and operator of Wynn Las Vegas, has been approved by the Nevada Gaming Authorities as a limited liability company licensee, which includes approval to conduct casino gaming operations, including a race book and sports pool, pari-mutuel wagering and the operation of gaming salons. These gaming licenses are not transferable.

Company Registration Requirements. Wynn Resorts was found suitable by the NGC to own the equity interests of Wynn Resorts Holdings, LLC ("Wynn Resorts Holdings"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Wynn Resorts, and to be registered by the NGC as a publicly traded corporation, referred to as a registered company, for the purposes of the Nevada Gaming Control Act. Wynn Resorts Holdings was found suitable by the NGC to own the equity interests of Wynn America, LLC ("Wynn America") and to be registered by the NGC as an intermediary company. Wynn America was found suitable by the NGC to own the equity interests of Wynn Las Vegas Holdings, LLC and to be registered by the NGC as an intermediary company. Wynn Las Vegas Holdings, LLC was found suitable by the NGC to own the equity interests of Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and to be registered by the NGC as an intermediary company. Wynn Las Vegas, LLC and Wynn Las Vegas Capital Corp. are co-issuers of the debt securities. Wynn Las Vegas Capital Corp. was not required to be registered or licensed, but may be required to be found suitable as a lender or financing source.

Periodically, we are required to submit detailed financial and operating reports to the NGC and provide any other information that the NGC may require. Substantially all of our material loans, leases, sales of securities and similar financing transactions must be reported to, and/or approved by, the NGC.

Individual Licensing Requirements. No person may become a more than 5% stockholder or member of, or receive any percentage of the profits of, an intermediary company or company licensee without first obtaining licenses and approvals from the Nevada Gaming Authorities. The Nevada Gaming Authorities may investigate any individual who has a material relationship to or material involvement with us to determine whether the individual is suitable or should be licensed as a business associate of a gaming licensee. Certain of our officers, directors and key employees have been or may be required to file applications with the Nevada Gaming Authorities and are or may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. All applications required as of the date of this report have been filed. However, the Nevada Gaming Authorities may require additional applications and may also deny an application for licensing for any reason which they deem appropriate. A finding of suitability is comparable to licensing, and both require submission of detailed personal and financial information followed by a thorough investigation. An applicant for licensing or an applicant for a finding of suitability must pay or must cause to be paid all the costs of the investigation. Changes in licensed positions must be reported to the Nevada Gaming Authorities and, in addition to their authority to deny an application for a finding of suitability or licensing, the Nevada Gaming Authorities have the jurisdiction to disapprove a change in a corporate position.

Redemption of Securities Owned by an Unsuitable Person. The Company's articles of incorporation provide that, to the extent required by the gaming authority making the determination of unsuitability or to the extent the Board of Directors determines, in its sole discretion, that a person is likely to jeopardize the Company's or any affiliate's application for, receipt of, approval for, right to the use of, or entitlement to, any gaming license, shares of Wynn Resorts' capital stock that are owned or controlled by such person or its affiliates are subject to redemption by Wynn Resorts. The redemption price will be the amount, if any, required by the gaming authority or, if the gaming authority does not determine the price, the sum deemed by the Board of Directors to be the fair value of the securities to be redeemed. If Wynn Resorts determines the redemption price, the redemption price will be capped at the closing price of the shares on the principal national securities exchange on which the shares are listed on the trading day before the redemption notice is given. If the shares are not listed on a national securities exchange, the redemption price will be capped at the closing sale price of the shares as quoted on The Nasdaq Global Select Market or if the closing price is not reported, the mean between the bid and ask prices, as quoted by any other generally recognized reporting system. Wynn Resorts' right of redemption is not exclusive of any other rights that it may have or later acquire under any agreement, its bylaws or otherwise. The redemption price may be paid in cash, by promissory note, or both, as required, and pursuant to the terms established by the applicable Gaming Authority and, if not, as the Board of Directors of Wynn Resorts elects, and as set forth in the Company's articles of incorporation.

Based on the Board of Directors' finding of "unsuitability," on February 18, 2012, Wynn Resorts redeemed and canceled Aruze USA, Inc.'s ("Aruze") 24,549,222 shares of Wynn Resorts' common stock. Pursuant to its articles of incorporation, Wynn Resorts issued the Redemption Price Promissory Note (the "Redemption Note") to Aruze in redemption of the shares. Aruze, Universal Entertainment Corporation and Mr. Kazuo Okada (collectively, the "Okada Parties") have challenged the redemption of Aruze's shares and the Company is currently involved in litigation with those parties as well as related stockholder derivative litigation. See Item 1A—"Risk Factors" and Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies."


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Consequences of Violating Gaming Laws. If the NGC determines that we have violated the Nevada Gaming Control Act or any of its regulations, it could limit, condition, suspend or revoke our registrations and gaming license. In addition, we and the persons involved could be subject to substantial fines for each separate violation of the Nevada Gaming Control Act, or of the regulations of the NGC, at the discretion of the NGC. Further, the NGC could appoint a supervisor to operate our Las Vegas Operations and, under specified circumstances, earnings generated during the supervisor's appointment (except for the reasonable rental value of the premises) could be forfeited to the State of Nevada. The limitation, conditioning or suspension of any of our gaming licenses and the appointment of a supervisor could, and revocation of any gaming license would, have a significant negative effect on our gaming operations.

Requirements for Voting or Nonvoting Securities Holders. Regardless of the number of shares held, any beneficial owner of Wynn Resorts' voting or nonvoting securities may be required to file an application, be investigated and have that person's suitability as a beneficial owner of voting securities determined if the NGC has reason to believe that the ownership would be inconsistent with the declared policies of the State of Nevada. If the beneficial owner of the voting or nonvoting securities of Wynn Resorts who must be found suitable is a corporation, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company or trust, it must submit detailed business and financial information, including a list of its beneficial owners. The applicant must pay all costs of the investigation incurred by the Nevada Gaming Authorities in conducting any investigation.

The Nevada Gaming Control Act requires any person who acquires more than 5% of the voting securities of a registered company to report the acquisition to the NGC. The Nevada Gaming Control Act requires beneficial owners of more than 10% of a registered company's voting securities to apply to the NGC for a finding of suitability within 30 days after the Chairman of the NGCB mails the written notice requiring such filing. However, an "institutional investor," as defined in the Nevada Gaming Control Act, which beneficially owns more than 10% but not more than 11% of a registered company's voting securities as a result of a stock repurchase by the registered company may not be required to file such an application. Further, an institutional investor which acquires more than 10%, but not more than 25%, of a registered company's voting securities may apply to the NGC for a waiver of a finding of suitability if the institutional investor holds the voting securities for investment purposes only. An institutional investor that has obtained a waiver may hold more than 25% but not more than 29% of a registered company's voting securities and maintain its waiver where the additional ownership results from a stock repurchase by the registered company. An institutional investor will not be deemed to hold voting securities for investment purposes unless the voting securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business as an institutional investor and not for the purpose of causing, directly or indirectly, the election of a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of the registered company, a change in the corporate charter, bylaws, management, policies or operations of the registered company, or any of its gaming affiliates, or any other action which the NGC finds to be inconsistent with holding the registered company's voting securities for investment purposes only. Activities which are not deemed to be inconsistent with holding voting securities for investment purposes only include:

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voting on all matters voted on by stockholders or interest holders;
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making financial and other inquiries of management of the type normally made by securities analysts for informational purposes and not to cause a change in management, policies or operations; and
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other activities that the NGC may determine to be consistent with such investment intent.

The articles of incorporation of Wynn Resorts include provisions intended to assist its implementation of the above restrictions.

Wynn Resorts is required to maintain a current stock ledger in Nevada which may be examined by the Nevada Gaming Authorities at any time. If any securities are held in trust by an agent or by a nominee, the record holder may be required to disclose the identity of the beneficial owner to the Nevada Gaming Authorities. A failure to make the disclosure may be grounds for finding the record holder unsuitable. We are required to provide maximum assistance in determining the identity of the beneficial owner of any of Wynn Resorts' voting securities. The NGC has the power to require the stock certificates of any registered company to bear a legend indicating that the securities are subject to the Nevada Gaming Control Act. The certificates representing shares of Wynn Resorts' common stock note that the shares are subject to a right of redemption and other restrictions set forth in Wynn Resorts' articles of incorporation and bylaws and that the shares are, or may become, subject to restrictions imposed by applicable gaming laws.

Consequences of Being Found Unsuitable. Any person who fails or refuses to apply for a finding of suitability or a license within 30 days after being ordered to do so by the NGC or by the Chairman of the NGCB, or who refuses or fails to pay the investigative costs incurred by the Nevada Gaming Authorities in connection with the investigation of its application may be found unsuitable. The same restrictions apply to a record owner if the record owner, after request, fails to identify the beneficial owner. Any person found unsuitable and who holds, directly or indirectly, any beneficial ownership of any voting security or debt security of a registered company beyond the period of time as may be prescribed by the NGC may be guilty of

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a criminal offense. We will be subject to disciplinary action if, after we receive notice that a person is unsuitable to hold an equity interest or to have any other relationship with us, we:

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pay that person any dividend or interest upon any voting securities;
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allow that person to exercise, directly or indirectly, any voting right held by that person relating to Wynn Resorts;
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pay remuneration in any form to that person for services rendered or otherwise; or
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fail to pursue all lawful efforts to require the unsuitable person to relinquish such person's voting securities, including, if necessary, the immediate purchase of the voting securities for cash at fair market value.

If the Nevada Gaming Authorities were to find an officer, director or key employee unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a relationship with us, we would have to sever all relationships with that person. In addition, the NGC may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications. Determinations of suitability or questions pertaining to licensing are not subject to judicial review in Nevada.

Gaming Laws Relating to Debt Securities Ownership. The NGC may, in its discretion, require the owner of any debt or similar securities of a registered company, to file applications, be investigated and be found suitable to own the debt or other securities of the registered company if the NGC has reason to believe that such ownership would otherwise be inconsistent with the declared policies of the State of Nevada. If the NGC decides that a person is unsuitable to own the securities, then under the Nevada Gaming Control Act, the registered company can be sanctioned, including the loss of its approvals if, without the prior approval of the NGC, it

•
pays to the unsuitable person any dividend, interest or any distribution whatsoever;
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recognizes any voting right by the unsuitable person in connection with the securities;
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pays the unsuitable person remuneration in any form; or
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makes any payment to the unsuitable person by way of principal, redemption, conversion, exchange, liquidation or similar transaction.

Approval of Public Offerings. Wynn Resorts may not make a public offering (debt or equity) without the prior approval of the NGC if the proceeds from the offering are intended to be used to construct, acquire or finance gaming facilities in Nevada, or to retire or extend obligations incurred for those purposes or for similar transactions. On March 17, 2016, the NGC granted Wynn Resorts prior approval, subject to certain conditions, to make public offerings for a period of three years (the "Shelf Approval"). The Shelf Approval may be rescinded for good cause without prior notice upon the issuance of an interlocutory stop order by the Chairman of the NGCB.

Approval of Changes in Control. A registered company must obtain the prior approval of the NGC with respect to a change in control through merger; consolidation; stock or asset acquisitions; management or consulting agreements; or any act or conduct by a person by which the person obtains control of the registered company.

Entities seeking to acquire control of a registered company must satisfy the NGCB and NGC with respect to a variety of stringent standards before assuming control of the registered company. The NGC may also require controlling stockholders, officers, directors and other persons having a material relationship or involvement with the entity proposing to acquire control to be investigated and licensed as part of the approval process relating to the transaction.

Approval of Defensive Tactics. The Nevada legislature has declared that some corporate acquisitions opposed by management, repurchases of voting securities and corporate defense tactics affecting Nevada corporate gaming licensees or affecting registered companies that are affiliated with the operations of Nevada gaming licensees may be harmful to stable and productive corporate gaming. The NGC has established a regulatory scheme to reduce the potential adverse effects of these business practices upon Nevada's gaming industry and to further Nevada's policy in order to:

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assure the financial stability of corporate gaming licensees and their affiliated companies;
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preserve the beneficial aspects of conducting business in the corporate form; and
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promote a neutral environment for the orderly governance of corporate affairs.

Approvals may be required from the NGC before a registered company can make exceptional repurchases of voting securities above its current market price and before a corporate acquisition opposed by management can be consummated. The Nevada Gaming Control Act also requires prior approval of a plan of recapitalization proposed by a registered company's board of directors in response to a tender offer made directly to its stockholders for the purpose of acquiring control.


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Fees and Taxes. License fees and taxes, computed in various ways depending on the type of gaming or activity involved, are payable to the State of Nevada and to the counties and cities in which the licensed subsidiaries' respective operations are conducted. Depending upon the particular fee or tax involved, these fees and taxes are payable monthly, quarterly or annually and are based upon a percentage of the gross revenue received; the number of gaming devices operated; or the number of table games operated. A live entertainment tax also is imposed on admission charges where live entertainment is furnished.

Foreign Gaming Investigations. Any person who is licensed, required to be licensed, registered, required to be registered in Nevada, or is under common control with such persons (collectively, "licensees"), and who proposes to become involved in a gaming venture outside of Nevada, is required to deposit with the NGCB, and thereafter maintain, a revolving fund in the amount of $10,000 to pay the expenses of investigation of the NGCB of the licensee's or registrant's participation in such foreign gaming. The revolving fund is subject to increase or decrease at the discretion of the NGC. Licensees and registrants are required to comply with the foreign gaming reporting requirements imposed by the Nevada Gaming Control Act. A licensee or registrant is also subject to disciplinary action by the NGC if it:

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knowingly violates any laws of the foreign jurisdiction pertaining to the foreign gaming operation;
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fails to conduct the foreign gaming operation in accordance with the standards of honesty and integrity required of Nevada gaming operations;
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engages in any activity or enters into any association that is unsuitable because it poses an unreasonable threat to the control of gaming in Nevada, reflects or tends to reflect, discredit or disrepute upon the State of Nevada or gaming in Nevada, or is contrary to the gaming policies of Nevada;
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engages in activities or enters into associations that are harmful to the State of Nevada or its ability to collect gaming taxes and fees; or
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employs, contracts with or associates with a person in the foreign operation who has been denied a license or finding of suitability in Nevada on the ground of unsuitability.

Licenses for Conduct of Gaming and Sale of Alcoholic Beverages. The conduct of gaming activities and the service and sale of alcoholic beverages at Wynn Las Vegas are subject to licensing, control and regulation by the CCLGLB, which has granted Wynn Las Vegas, LLC licenses for such purposes. In addition to approving Wynn Las Vegas, LLC, the CCLGLB has the authority to approve all persons owning or controlling the stock of any corporation controlling a gaming license. Certain of our officers, directors and key employees have been or may be required to file applications with the CCLGLB. Clark County gaming and liquor licenses are not transferable. The County has full power to limit, condition, suspend or revoke any license. Any disciplinary action could, and revocation would, have a substantial negative impact on our operations.

Massachusetts

Introduction. On November 22, 2011, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick signed Chapter 194 of the Acts of 2011 "An Act Establishing Expanded Gaming in the Commonwealth," legislation (the "Gaming Act") designed to provide significant benefits to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by advancing job creation and economic development. The Gaming Act allows for up to three destination resort casinos located in three geographically diverse regions across the Commonwealth and a single slots facility, not pegged to any particular region. The licensing fee for each resort casino is $85 million and requires a capital investment, to include a hotel facility, of at least $500 million. The Commonwealth will receive 25% of gross gaming revenues.

The Gaming Act also called for the creation of a five-member independent body, the MGC, to oversee the implementation and licensing process, as well as regulate the operation of gaming facilities. The MGC is in the process of promulgating detailed regulations to govern the operations of the resort casinos and the slot parlor facility.

Owner and Operator Licensing Requirements. Our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, Wynn MA, LLC, was the "applicant" under the MGC's Phase 1 regulations and was determined to be suitable for the purpose of holding a Category 1 Gaming License. On September 17, 2014, the MGC designated Wynn MA, LLC the award winner of the Greater Boston (Region A) gaming license. On November 7, 2014, the gaming license awarded to us became effective.

Company Registration Requirements. In addition, pursuant to the Phase 1 regulations, the following entities and persons are deemed to be "qualifiers" subject to investigation: all members, transferees of a member's interest, directors and managers of the licensee and, in the judgment of the MGC, each lender, each holder of indebtedness, each underwriter, each close associate, each executive and each agent. As a result, Wynn Resorts, its key employees and its directors were therefore subject to a suitability investigation. Wynn Resorts and all individual qualifiers were found suitable by the MGC. As our progress in Massachusetts continues, additional entities and key employees may be required to file applications with the MGC and are or may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the MGC. A finding of suitability is comparable to licensing, and both

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require submission of detailed personal and financial information followed by a thorough investigation. An applicant for licensing or an applicant for a finding of suitability must pay or must cause to be paid all the costs of the investigation. Changes in licensed positions must be reported to the MGC.

If the MGC were to find an officer, director or key employee unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a relationship with us, we would have to sever all relationships with that person. In addition, the MGC may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications. Determinations of suitability or questions pertaining to licensing are not subject to judicial review.

Consequences of Violating Gaming Laws. If the MGC determines that we have violated the Gaming Act or any of its regulations, it could limit, condition, suspend or revoke our registrations and gaming license. In addition, the MGC set forth certain conditions in our gaming license. Any violation of the Gaming Act, its regulations or any of our license conditions resulting in a limitation, conditioning or suspension of our gaming license would have a significant negative effect on our Massachusetts gaming operations.

Licenses for Conduct of Gaming and Sale of Alcoholic Beverages. Pursuant to the Gaming Act, the MGC may grant a gaming beverage license for the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages for a gaming establishment. The division of gaming liquor enforcement of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission has the authority to enforce, regulate and control the distribution of alcoholic beverages in a gaming establishment. The MGC may revoke, suspend, refuse to renew or refuse to transfer a gaming beverage license for violations of the Gaming Act that pertain to the sale and distribution of alcohol consumed on the premises and the regulations adopted by the MGC. The MGC has adopted regulations for the issuance of gaming beverage licenses. These regulations and any changes in applicable laws, regulations and procedures could have significant negative effects on our future Massachusetts gaming operations and results of operations.

Other Regulations

In addition to gaming regulations, we are subject to extensive local, state, federal and foreign laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. These include, but are not limited to, laws and regulations relating to alcoholic beverages, environmental matters, employment and immigration, currency and other transactions, taxation, zoning and building codes, marketing and advertising, lending, debt collection, privacy, telemarketing, money laundering, laws and regulations administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, and anti-bribery laws, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA"). Such laws and regulations could change or could be interpreted differently in the future, or new laws and regulations could be enacted. Any material changes, new laws or regulations, or material differences in interpretations by courts or governmental authorities could adversely affect our business and operating results.

Seasonality

We may experience fluctuations in revenues and cash flows from month to month; however, we do not believe that our business is materially impacted by seasonality.

Employees

As of December 31, 2017, we had approximately 25,200 employees (including approximately 13,100 in Macau and 12,100 in the United States).

Our collective bargaining agreement with the Culinary and Bartenders Union, which covers approximately 5,600 employees at Wynn Las Vegas, expires July 2021. Our collective bargaining agreement with the Transportation Workers Union, which covers approximately 430 of our table games dealers at Wynn Las Vegas, expires November 2020. Certain other unions may seek to organize the workers of our resorts.

Intellectual Property

Among our most important marks are our trademarks and service marks that use the name "WYNN." Wynn Resorts has registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office ("PTO") a variety of WYNN-related trademarks and service marks in connection with a variety of goods and services.

We have also filed applications with various foreign patent and trademark registries, including in Macau, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, certain European countries and various other jurisdictions throughout the world, to register a variety of WYNN-related trademarks and service marks in connection with a variety of goods and services.

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We recognize that our intellectual property assets, including the word and logo version of "WYNN," are among our most valuable assets. As a result, and in connection with expansion of our resorts and gaming activities outside the United States, we have undertaken a program to register our trademarks and other intellectual property rights in relevant jurisdictions. We have retained counsel and intend to take all steps necessary to protect our intellectual property rights against unauthorized use throughout the world.

On August 6, 2004, we entered into agreements with Mr. Wynn that confirm and clarify our rights to use the "Wynn" surname and Mr. Wynn's persona in connection with our casino resorts. Under the parties' Surname Rights Agreement, Mr. Wynn granted us our exclusive, fully paid-up, perpetual, worldwide license to use, and to own and register trademarks and service marks incorporating the "Wynn" surname for casino resorts and related businesses, together with the right to sublicense the name and marks to its affiliates. Pursuant to a separation agreement, dated as of February 15, 2018, by and between Mr. Wynn and the Company, if the Company ceases to use the "Wynn" surname and trademark, the Company will assign all of its right, title, and interest in the "Wynn" trademark to Mr. Wynn and terminate the Surname Rights Agreement. Under the parties' Rights of Publicity License, Mr. Wynn granted us the exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide right to use his full name, persona and related rights of publicity for casino resorts and related businesses, together with the ability to sublicense the persona and publicity rights to our affiliates, until October 24, 2017.

We have also registered various domain names with various domain registrars around the world. Our domain registrations extend to various foreign jurisdictions such as ".com.cn" and ".com.hk." We pursue domain related infringement on a case by case basis depending on the infringing domain in question. The information found on these websites is not a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or any other report we file or furnish to the SEC.

For more information regarding the Company's intellectual property matters, see Item 1A—"Risk Factors."

Forward-Looking Statements

We make forward-looking statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K based upon the beliefs and assumptions of our management and on information currently available to us. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, information about our business strategy, development activities, competition and possible or assumed future results of operations, throughout this report and are often preceded by, followed by or include the words "may," "will," "should," "would," "could," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "continue" or the negative of these terms or similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those we express in these forward-looking statements, including the risks and uncertainties in Item 1A—"Risk Factors" and other factors we describe from time to time in our periodic filings with the SEC, such as:

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controversy, regulatory action, litigation and investigations related to Stephen A. Wynn and his separation from the Company;
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extensive regulation of our business (including the Chinese government's ongoing anti-corruption campaign) and the cost of compliance or failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations;
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pending or future legal proceedings, regulatory or enforcement actions or probity investigations (including those related to the former Chairman and CEO of the Company);
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our ability to maintain our gaming licenses and concessions;
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our dependence on key employees;
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general global political and economic conditions, in the U.S. and China, which may impact levels of travel, leisure and consumer spending;
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restrictions or conditions on visitation by citizens of mainland China to Macau;
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the impact on the travel and leisure industry from factors such as an outbreak of an infectious disease, extreme weather patterns or natural disasters, military conflicts and any future security alerts and/or terrorist attacks;
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doing business in foreign locations such as Macau;
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our ability to maintain our customer relationships and collect and enforce gaming receivables;
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our relationships with Macau gaming promoters;
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outcome of the litigation with Mr. Okada and his affiliates;
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our dependence on a limited number of resorts and locations for all of our cash flow and our subsidiaries' ability to pay us dividends and distributions;

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•
competition in the casino/hotel and resort industries and actions taken by our competitors, including new development and construction activities of competitors;
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factors affecting the development and success of new gaming and resort properties (including limited labor resources, government labor and gaming policies and transportation infrastructure in Macau; and cost increases, environmental regulation, and our ability to secure necessary permits and approvals in Everett, Massachusetts);
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construction risks (including disputes with and defaults by contractors and subcontractors; construction, equipment or staffing problems; shortages of materials or skilled labor; environment, health and safety issues; and unanticipated cost increases);
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legalization of gaming in other jurisdictions;
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any violations by us of the anti-money laundering laws or Foreign Corrupt Practices Act;
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changes in gaming laws or regulations;
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changes in federal, foreign, or state tax laws or the administration of such laws;
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potential violations of law by Mr. Kazuo Okada, a former stockholder of ours;
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changes in the valuation of the promissory note we issued in connection with the redemption of Mr. Okada's shares;
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continued compliance with all provisions in our debt agreements;
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conditions precedent to funding under our credit facilities;
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leverage and debt service (including sensitivity to fluctuations in interest rates);
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cybersecurity risk, including misappropriation of customer information or other breaches of information security;
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our ability to protect our intellectual property rights; and
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our current and future insurance coverage levels.

Further information on potential factors that could affect our financial condition, results of operations and business are included in this report and our other filings with the SEC. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based only on information available to us at the time this statement is made. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

You should carefully consider the risk factors set forth below, as well as the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, regarding matters that could have an adverse effect, including a material one, on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial may also have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
 
Risks Related to our Business

The controversy, regulatory action, litigation and investigations related to Stephen A. Wynn and his separation from the Company could significantly harm our business.
On February 6, 2018, Mr. Wynn resigned as CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors after allegations of inappropriate personal conduct by Mr. Wynn in the workplace were reported in a January 26, 2018 Wall Street Journal article. The resulting controversy related to Mr. Wynn and his separation from the Company could significantly harm our business in numerous ways, including in ways that we cannot predict. As discussed elsewhere in this Form 10-K, gaming regulators in Macau, Massachusetts and Nevada are reviewing the situation. Each of these regulatory authorities has extensive power to license and oversee the operations of our casino resorts and could take action against the Company and its related licensees or Mr. Wynn, including actions that could affect the ability or terms upon which our subsidiaries hold their gaming licenses and concessions, the suitability of the Company to continue as a stockholder of those subsidiaries, and/or the suitability of Mr. Wynn to continue as a stockholder of the Company. As discussed in Item 3—"Legal Proceedings" and Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies—Litigation," lawsuits have been filed against the Company and our Board of Directors arising out of the allegations against Mr. Wynn, and such claims present a number of risks, including distraction of management, assertions that could affect our reputation, and potential legal liabilities. Additional allegations have been and may in the future be asserted against Mr. Wynn and/or the Company, and additional regulatory or legal proceedings involving the Company may be commenced in the future. The developments regarding Mr. Wynn have and may in the future affect the course of proceedings and the parties' position in litigation in which Elaine P. Wynn, Mr. Wynn's former spouse, submitted a cross claim seeking to void a stockholders agreement to which she and Mr. Wynn are parties. The cross claim, if successful, could increase the possibility of a change in control occurring for purposes of

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certain Wynn Las Vegas, LLC debt documents. For additional information on the cross claim, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies." In addition, the Company's integrated resort business model was pioneered by Mr. Wynn. Our business, reputation, and competitive position may now suffer as a result of our association with Mr. Wynn, or as a result of his separation from the Company and the loss of his skills and experience.
We are subject to extensive state and local regulation, and licensing and gaming authorities have significant control over our operations. The cost of compliance or failure to comply with such regulations and authorities could have a negative effect on our business.

The operations of our resorts are contingent upon our obtaining and maintaining all necessary licenses, permits, approvals, registrations, findings of suitability, orders and authorizations in the jurisdictions in which our resorts are located. The laws, regulations and ordinances requiring these licenses, permits and other approvals generally relate to the responsibility, financial stability and character of the owners and managers of gaming operations, as well as persons financially interested or involved in gaming operations. The NGC may require the holder of any debt or securities we or Wynn Las Vegas, LLC issue to file applications, be investigated and be found suitable to own Wynn Resorts' securities if it has reason to believe that the security ownership would be inconsistent with the declared policies of the State of Nevada.

The Company's articles of incorporation provide that, to the extent required by the gaming authority making the determination of unsuitability or to the extent the Board of Directors determines, in its sole discretion, that a person is likely to jeopardize the Company's or any affiliate's application for, receipt of, approval for, right to the use of, or entitlement to, any gaming license, shares of Wynn Resorts' capital stock that are owned or controlled by such unsuitable person or its affiliates are subject to redemption by Wynn Resorts. The redemption price may be paid in cash, by promissory note, or both, as required, and pursuant to the terms established by the applicable gaming authority and, if not, as Wynn Resorts elects. On February 18, 2012, after receiving a report from Freeh, Sporkin & Sullivan, LLP (the "Freeh Report") detailing numerous instances of conduct constituting prima facie violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA") by Kazuo Okada (formerly the largest beneficial owner of Wynn Resorts' shares) and certain of his affiliates, the Board of Directors of Wynn Resorts determined that Aruze USA Inc. ("Aruze"), Universal Entertainment Corporation, and Mr. Kazuo Okada (collectively, the "Okada Parties") were "unsuitable" within the meaning of Article VII of Wynn Resorts' articles of incorporation and redeemed all of Aruze's shares of Wynn Resorts' common stock. See Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies."

Nevada and Massachusetts regulatory authorities have broad powers to request detailed financial and other information, to limit, condition, suspend or revoke a registration, gaming license or related approvals; approve changes in our operations; and levy fines or require forfeiture of assets for violations of gaming laws or regulations. Complying with gaming laws, regulations and license requirements is costly. Any change in the Nevada and Massachusetts laws, regulations or licenses applicable to our business or a violation of any current or future laws or regulations applicable to our business or gaming licenses could require us to make substantial expenditures and forfeit assets, and would negatively affect our gaming operations.

Our Macau Operations are subject to unique risks. Failure to adhere to the regulatory and gaming environment in Macau could result in the revocation of our Macau Operations' concession or otherwise negatively affect its operations in Macau. Moreover, we are subject to the risk that U.S. regulators could determine that Macau's gaming regulatory framework has not developed in a way that would permit us to conduct operations in Macau in a manner consistent with the way in which we intend, or the Nevada gaming authorities require us, to conduct our operations in the United States.

In connection with the allegations of inappropriate personal conduct by Mr. Wynn in the workplace reported in a January 26, 2018 Wall Street Journal article, gaming regulators in Massachusetts and Nevada are reviewing the allegations, the Company's internal policies and procedures with respect to maintaining a safe and respectful workplace for all employees and suitability with respect to the Company and its related licensees. The gaming regulator in Macau is monitoring and reviewing the situation. Each of these regulatory authorities has extensive power to license and oversee the operations of our casino resorts and could take action against the Company and its related licensees or Mr. Wynn, including actions that could affect the ability or terms upon which our subsidiaries hold their gaming licenses and concessions, the suitability of the Company to continue as a stockholder of those affiliates and/or the suitability of Mr. Wynn to continue as a stockholder of the Company.


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Ongoing investigations, litigation and other disputes could distract management and result in negative publicity and additional scrutiny from regulators.

There has been widespread publicity of the findings in the Freeh Report of prima facie violations of law by Mr. Okada and his affiliates, the Board of Directors' unsuitability finding, the redemption of shares and related litigation. In addition, Elaine P. Wynn has asserted various claims against Mr. Wynn, the Company and various Company officers, which have and may continue to draw adverse publicity or impugn the Company's reputation.

On January 26, 2018, the Company's Board of Directors formed a Special Committee comprised solely of independent directors to investigate allegations of inappropriate personal conduct by Mr. Wynn in the workplace. On February 12, 2018, the Special Committee announced that its review was expanded to include a comprehensive review of the Company's internal policies and procedures with the goal of employing best practices to maintain a safe and respectful workplace for all employees. Gaming regulators in Massachusetts and Nevada are reviewing these matters, including suitability with respect to the Company and its related licensees, and the Company is cooperating with these regulatory reviews. The gaming regulator in Macau is monitoring and reviewing the situation, and the Company is cooperating.
 
The foregoing investigations, litigation and other disputes and any additional such matters that may arise in the future, can be expensive and may divert management's attention from the operations of our businesses. The investigations, litigation and other disputes may also lead to additional scrutiny from regulators, which could lead to investigations relating to, and possibly a negative impact on, the Company's gaming licenses and the Company's ability to bid successfully for new gaming market opportunities. In addition, the actions, litigation and publicity could negatively impact our business, reputation and competitive position and could reduce demand for shares of Wynn Resorts and WML and thereby have a negative impact on the trading prices of their respective shares.

We depend on the continued services of key managers and employees. If we do not retain our key personnel or attract and retain other highly skilled employees, our business will suffer.

Our ability to maintain our competitive position is dependent to a large degree on the services of our senior management team. The loss of services of our senior managers or the inability to attract and retain additional senior management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Our business is particularly sensitive to reductions in discretionary consumer and corporate spending as a result of global economic conditions.

Consumer demand for casino/hotel resorts, trade shows and conventions and for the type of luxury amenities that we offer is particularly sensitive to changes in the global economy, which adversely impact discretionary spending on leisure activities. Changes in discretionary consumer spending or consumer preferences brought about by factors such as perceived or actual general global economic conditions, high unemployment, weakness in housing or oil markets, perceived or actual changes in disposable consumer income and wealth, an economic recession and changes in consumer confidence in the global economy, or fears of war and future acts of terrorism have in the past and could in the future reduce customer demand for the luxury amenities and leisure activities we offer, and may have a significant negative impact on our operating results.

Also, consumer demographics and preferences may evolve over time, which, for example, has resulted in growth in consumer demand for non-gaming offerings. Our success depends in part on our ability to anticipate the preferences of consumers and react to those trends and any failure to do so may negatively impact our operating results.

Visitation to Macau may decline due to economic disruptions in mainland China, restrictions on visitations to Macau from citizens of mainland China and the anti-corruption or similar campaigns.

A significant number of our gaming customers at our Macau Operations come from mainland China. Economic disruption, contraction and uncertainty in China could impact the number of patrons visiting our Macau Operations or the amount they may be willing to spend. In addition, policies adopted from time to time by the Chinese government, including any travel restrictions imposed by China on its citizens such as restrictions imposed on exit visas granted to residents of mainland China for travel to Macau, could disrupt the number of visitors from mainland China to our property. It is not known when, or if, policies restricting visitation by mainland Chinese citizens to Macau and Hong Kong, will be put in place and travel policies may be adjusted, without notice, in the future. Furthermore, the Chinese government's continuing anti-corruption campaign has influenced the behavior of Chinese consumers and their spending patterns both domestically and abroad. The campaign and mainland Chinese monetary outflow policies have specifically led to tighter monetary transfer regulations, including real time monitoring of certain financial channels, limitations on cash withdrawals from ATM machines by mainland China citizens and

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the reduction of annual withdrawal limits from bank accounts while the account holder is outside of mainland China. These policies may impact the number of visitors and the amount of money they bring from mainland China to Macau. The overall effect of these policies may negatively affect our revenues and results of operations.

Our business is particularly sensitive to the willingness of our customers to travel to and spend time at our resorts. Acts or the threat of acts of terrorism, regional political events and developments in certain countries could cause severe disruptions in air and other travel and may otherwise negatively impact tourists' willingness to visit our resorts. Such events or developments could reduce the number of visitors to our facilities, resulting in a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

We are dependent on the willingness of our customers to travel. Only a small amount of our business is and will be generated by local residents. Most of our customers travel to reach our Las Vegas and Macau properties. Acts of terrorism or concerns over the possibility of such acts may severely disrupt domestic and international travel, which would result in a decrease in customer visits to Las Vegas and Macau, including our properties. Regional conflicts could have a similar effect on domestic and international travel. Disruptions in air or other forms of travel as a result of any terrorist act, outbreak of hostilities, escalation of war or worldwide infectious disease outbreak would have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Furthermore, the attack in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017 underscores the possibility that large public facilities could become the target of mass shootings or other attacks in the future. The occurrence or the possibility of attacks could cause all or portions of affected properties to be shut down for prolonged periods, resulting in a loss of income; generally reduce travel to affected areas for tourism and business or adversely affect the willingness of customers to stay in or avail themselves of the services of the affected properties; expose us to a risk of monetary claims arising from death, injury or damage to property caused by any such attack; and result in higher costs for security and insurance premiums, all of which could adversely affect our results.

Our continued success depends on our ability to maintain the reputation of our resorts.

Our strategy and integrated resort business model rely on positive perceptions of our resorts and the level of service we provide.  Any deterioration in our reputation could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and cash flows.  Our reputation could be negatively impacted by our failure to deliver the superior design and customer service for which we are known or by events that are beyond our control.  Our reputation may also suffer as a result of negative publicity regarding the Company or our resorts, including as a result of social media reports, regardless of the accuracy of such publicity.  The continued expansion of media and social media formats has compounded the potential scope of negative publicity and has made it more difficult to control and effectively manage negative publicity.

Mr. Okada and his affiliates have challenged the redemption of Aruze's Shares. An adverse judgment or settlement resulting from the related litigation could reduce our profits or limit our ability to operate our business.

On February 18, 2012, Wynn Resorts' Gaming Compliance Committee received the Freeh Report detailing a pattern of misconduct by the Okada Parties. After receiving the Freeh Report, the Board of Directors of Wynn Resorts determined that each of the Okada Parties was "unsuitable" within the meaning of Article VII of Wynn Resorts' articles of incorporation and redeemed all of Aruze's shares of Wynn Resorts' common stock. See Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies." On February 19, 2012, Wynn Resorts filed a complaint in the Eighth Judicial District Court, Clark County, Nevada against the Okada Parties (as amended, the "Complaint"), alleging breaches of fiduciary duty and related claims (the "Redemption Action") arising from the activities addressed in the Freeh Report. The Company is seeking compensatory and special damages as well as a declaration that it acted lawfully and in full compliance with its articles of incorporation, bylaws and other governing documents in redeeming and canceling the shares of Aruze. On March 12, 2012, the Okada Parties filed an answer denying the claims and a counterclaim (as amended, the "Counterclaim") against the Company, each of the members of the Company's Board of Directors (other than Mr. Okada) and Wynn Resorts' General Counsel (collectively, the "Wynn Parties"), seeking, among other things, a declaration that the redemption of Aruze's shares was void, an injunction restoring Aruze's share ownership, damages in an unspecified amount and rescission of the Amended and Restated Stockholders Agreement, dated as of January 6, 2010, by and among Aruze, Stephen A. Wynn, and Elaine P. Wynn (the "Stockholders Agreement"). In connection with the Redemption Action and Counterclaim additional actions were commenced. For a full description of these matters and status as of the date of this report, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies." The Company is vigorously pursuing its claims against the Okada Parties, and together with the other counter-defendants, vigorously defending against the Counterclaim and other actions asserted against them. However, as with all litigation, the outcome of these proceedings cannot be predicted. Any adverse judgments or settlements involving payment of a material sum of money could cause a material adverse effect on our

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financial condition and results of operations and could expose us to additional claims by third parties, including current or former investors or regulators. Any adverse judgments or settlements would reduce our profits and could limit our ability to operate our business.

We are entirely dependent on a limited number of resorts for all of our cash flow, which subjects us to greater risks than a gaming company with more operating properties.

We are currently entirely dependent upon our Macau Operations and Las Vegas Operations for all of our operating cash flow. As a result, we are subject to a greater degree of risk than a gaming company with more operating properties or greater geographic diversification. The risks to which we have a greater degree of exposure include the following:

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changes in local economic and competitive conditions;
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changes in local and state governmental laws and regulations, including gaming laws and regulations, and the way in which those laws and regulations are applied;
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natural and other disasters, including the outbreak of infectious diseases;
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an increase in the cost of maintaining our properties;
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a decline in the number of visitors to Las Vegas or Macau; and
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a decrease in gaming and non-casino activities at our resorts.

 Any of the factors outlined above could negatively affect our results of operations and our ability to generate sufficient cash flow to make payments or maintain our covenants with respect to our debt.

We are a parent company and our primary source of cash is and will be distributions from our subsidiaries.

We are a parent company with limited business operations of our own. Our main asset is the capital stock of our subsidiaries. We conduct most of our business operations through our direct and indirect subsidiaries. Accordingly, our primary sources of cash are dividends and distributions with respect to our ownership interests in our subsidiaries that are derived from the earnings and cash flow generated by our operating properties. Our subsidiaries might not generate sufficient earnings and cash flow to pay dividends or distributions in the future.

Our subsidiaries' payments to us will be contingent upon their earnings and upon other business considerations. In addition, our subsidiaries' debt instruments and other agreements limit or prohibit certain payments of dividends or other distributions to us. We expect that future debt instruments for the financing of our other developments will contain similar restrictions. An inability of our subsidiaries to pay us dividends and distributions would have a significant negative effect on our liquidity.

Our casino, hotel, convention and other facilities face intense competition, which may increase in the future.

The casino/hotel industry is highly competitive. Our Macau Operations face intense competition with approximately 39 other casinos currently operating in Macau. We hold a concession under one of only three gaming concessions and three subconcessions authorized by the Macau government to operate casinos in Macau. The Macau government has had the ability to grant additional gaming concessions since April 2009. If the Macau government were to allow additional competitors to operate in Macau through the grant of additional concessions or subconcessions, we would face additional competition, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Several of the current concessionaires and subconcessionaires will open additional facilities in the Cotai area over the next few years. Several of the current concessionaires and subconcessionaires have opened facilities in the Cotai area over the past few years, which has significantly increased gaming and non-gaming offerings in Macau, with continued development and further openings in Cotai expected in the near future.

Our Macau Operations face competition from casinos located in Singapore, the Philippines and Malaysia. We also encounter competition from other major gaming centers located around the world, including Australia and Las Vegas, cruise ships in Asia that offer gaming, and other casinos throughout Asia. Further, if current efforts to legalize gaming in other Asian countries, such as Japan, are successful, we will face additional regional competition.

Our Las Vegas Operations compete with other Las Vegas Strip hotels and with other hotel casinos in Las Vegas on the basis of overall atmosphere, range of amenities, level of service, price, location, entertainment, theme and size, among other factors. Wynn Las Vegas also competes with other casino/hotel facilities in other cities. The proliferation of gaming activities in other areas could significantly harm our business as well. In particular, the legalization or expansion of casino gaming in or

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near metropolitan areas from which we attract customers could have a negative effect on our business. In addition, new or renovated casinos in Macau or elsewhere in Asia could draw Asian gaming customers away from Wynn Las Vegas.

Increased competition could result in a loss of customers, which may negatively affect our cash flows and results of operations.

Our business relies on high-end, international customers. We often extend credit, and we may not be able to collect gaming receivables from our credit players or credit play may decrease.

General. A significant portion of our table games revenue at our resorts is attributable to the play of a limited number of international customers. The loss or a reduction in the play of the most significant of these customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. A downturn in economic conditions in the countries in which these customers reside could cause a reduction in the frequency of visits by and revenue generated from these customers.

We conduct our gaming activities on a credit as well as a cash basis. The casino credit we extend is generally unsecured and due on demand. We will extend casino credit to those customers whose level of play and financial resources, in the opinion of management, warrant such an extension. The collectability of receivables from international customers could be negatively affected by future business or economic trends or by significant events in the countries in which these customers reside.

Macau Operations. Although the law in Macau permits casino operators to extend credit to gaming customers, our Macau Operations may not be able to collect all of its gaming receivables from its credit players. We expect that our Macau Operations will be able to enforce these obligations only in a limited number of jurisdictions, including Macau. To the extent our gaming customers are visitors from other jurisdictions, we may not have access to a forum in which we will be able to collect all of our gaming receivables because, among other reasons, courts of many jurisdictions do not enforce gaming debts and we may encounter forums that will refuse to enforce such debts. Our inability to collect gaming debts could have a significant negative impact on our operating results.

Currently, the gaming tax in Macau is calculated as a percentage of gross gaming revenue. However, unlike Nevada, the gross gaming revenue calculation in Macau does not include deductions for uncollectible gaming debts. As a result, if we extend credit to our customers in Macau and are unable to collect on the related receivables from them, we remain obligated to pay taxes on our winnings from these customers.

Las Vegas Operations. While gaming debts evidenced by a credit instrument, including what is commonly referred to as a "marker," are enforceable under the current laws of Nevada, and judgments on gaming debts are enforceable in all states of the United States under the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the United States Constitution, other jurisdictions may determine that direct or indirect enforcement of gaming debts is against public policy. Although courts of some foreign nations will enforce gaming debts directly and the assets in the United States of foreign debtors may be used to satisfy a judgment, judgments on gaming debts from U.S. courts are not binding on the courts of many foreign nations. We cannot assure that we will be able to collect the full amount of gaming debts owed to us, even in jurisdictions that enforce them. Changes in economic conditions may make it more difficult to assess creditworthiness and more difficult to collect the full amount of any gaming debt owed to us. Our inability to collect gaming debts could have a significant negative impact on our operating results.

Win rates for our gaming operations depend on a variety of factors, some of which are beyond our control.

The gaming industry is characterized by an element of chance. In addition to the element of chance, win rates are also affected by other factors, including players' skill and experience, the mix of games played, the financial resources of players, the spread of table limits, the volume of bets played, the amount of time played and undiscovered acts of fraud or cheating. Our gross gaming revenues are mainly derived from the difference between our casino winnings and the casino winnings of our gaming customers. Since there is an inherent element of chance in the gaming industry, we do not have full control over our winnings or the winnings of our gaming customers.

In addition, premium gaming is more volatile than other forms of gaming, and variances in win-loss results attributable to high-end gaming may have a positive or negative impact on cash flow and earnings in a particular quarter.


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Our new projects may not be successful.

In addition to the construction and regulatory risks associated with our current and future construction projects, we cannot assure you that the level of consumer demand for our casino resorts or for the type of luxury amenities that we will offer will meet our expectations. The operating results of our new projects may be materially different than the operating results of our current integrated resorts due to, among other reasons, differences in consumer and corporate spending and preferences in new geographic areas, increased competition from other markets or other developments that may be beyond our control. In addition, our new projects may be more sensitive to certain risks, including risks associated with downturns in the economy, than the resorts we currently operate. The demands imposed by new developments on our managerial, operational and other resources may impact our operation of our existing resorts. If any of these issues were to occur, it could adversely affect our prospects, financial condition, or results of operations.

We could encounter higher than expected cost increases in the development of our projects.

We are currently constructing Wynn Boston Harbor in Everett, Massachusetts. The total project budget for Wynn Boston Harbor, including gaming license fees, construction costs, capitalized interest, pre-opening expenses and land costs, is estimated to be approximately $2.5 billion. We have begun site preparation and pre-construction activities for the re-development of the land formerly occupied by the Wynn Las Vegas golf course, which we closed in the fourth quarter of 2017. Phase 1 of the project is expected to include a lagoon and additional meeting and convention space. Based on current designs, we estimate the total project budget for Phase 1 to be approximately $500 million and we expect to open Phase 1 in the first half of 2020.   

The projected development costs for our projects reflect our best estimates and the actual development costs may be higher than expected. Contingencies that have been set aside by us to cover potential cost overruns or potential delays may be insufficient to cover the full amount of such overruns or delays. If these contingencies are not sufficient to cover these costs, or if we are not able to recover damages for these delays and contingencies, we may not have the funds required to pay the excess costs and this project may not be completed. Failure to complete this project may negatively affect our financial condition, our results of operations and our ability to pay our debt.

Construction projects will be subject to development and construction risks, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Major construction projects of the scope and scale of Wynn Boston Harbor and the redevelopment of the Wynn Las Vegas golf course land entail significant risks, including:

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unanticipated cost increases;
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shortages of, and price increases in, materials or skilled labor;
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changes to plans and specifications;
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delays in obtaining or inability to obtain requisite licenses, permits and authorizations from regulatory authorities;
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changes in laws and regulations, or in the interpretation and enforcement of laws and regulations, applicable to gaming, leisure, real estate development or construction projects;
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unforeseen engineering, environmental and/or geological problems;
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labor disputes or work stoppages;
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disputes with and defaults by contractors and subcontractors;
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personal injuries to workers and other persons;
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environment, health and safety issues, including site accidents;
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delays or interference from severe weather or natural disasters;
•
geological, construction, excavation, regulatory and equipment problems; and
•
unavailability of construction equipment.

Construction, equipment or staffing problems or difficulties in obtaining any of the requisite licenses, permits and authorizations from regulatory authorities could increase the total cost, delay or prevent the construction or opening or otherwise affect the design and features of our projects.

We anticipate that only some of the subcontractors engaged for these projects will post bonds guaranteeing timely completion of the subcontractor's work and payment for all of that subcontractor's labor and materials. These bonds may not be adequate to ensure completion of the work.


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Our facilities currently under development may not commence operations on schedule and construction costs for the projects may exceed budgeted amounts. Failure to complete the projects on schedule or within budget may have a significant negative effect on us and on our ability to make payments on our debt.

We are currently required to commence gaming operations at Wynn Boston Harbor by June 2020. If we are unable to meet this deadline, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission may suspend or revoke our gaming license.

Pursuant to the Gaming Act, the Company is required to commence gaming operations at Wynn Boston Harbor approximately one year from our projected opening date of mid-2019. If the Company is unable to meet the current deadline and is unable to obtain an extension of the deadline from the MGC, the MGC may suspend or revoke our gaming license and, if we are found by the MGC after a hearing to have acted in bad faith, we will be assessed a fine of up to $50,000,000. Failure to meet the deadline could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows from this planned facility.

Any violation of applicable Anti-Money Laundering laws or regulations or the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act could adversely affect our business, performance, prospects, value, financial condition, and results of operations.

We deal with significant amounts of cash in our operations and are subject to various jurisdictions' reporting and anti-money laundering laws and regulations. Both U.S. and Macau governmental authorities focus heavily on the gaming industry and compliance with anti-money laundering laws and regulations. From time to time, the Company receives governmental and regulatory inquiries about compliance with such laws and regulations. The Company cooperates with all such inquiries. Any violation of anti-money laundering laws or regulations could adversely affect our business, performance, prospects, value, financial condition, and results of operations.

Further, we have operations, and a significant portion of our revenue is derived outside of the United States. We are therefore subject to regulations imposed by the FCPA and other anti-corruption laws that generally prohibit U.S. companies and their intermediaries from offering, promising, authorizing or making improper payments to foreign government officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. Violations of the FCPA and other anti-corruption laws may result in severe criminal and civil sanctions as well as other penalties, and the SEC and U.S. Department of Justice have increased their enforcement activities with respect such laws and regulations.

Internal control policies and procedures and employee training and compliance programs that we have implemented to deter prohibited practices may not be effective in prohibiting our directors, employees, contractors or agents from violating or circumventing our policies and the law. If we or our directors, employees or agents fail to comply with applicable laws or Company policies governing our operations, the Company may face investigations, prosecutions and other legal proceedings and actions, which could result in civil penalties, administrative remedies and criminal sanctions. Any such government investigations, prosecutions or other legal proceedings or actions could adversely affect our business, performance, prospects, value, financial condition, and results of operations.

Mr. Okada failed to comply with internal training in these matters and failed to return to Wynn Resorts an executed Acknowledgment agreeing to comply with the Wynn Resorts Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. On February 19, 2012, Wynn Resorts filed a complaint in Nevada state court against Mr. Okada and other entities alleging, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty in connection with alleged violations of the FCPA. For information on such complaint, the Freeh Report, which detailed numerous instances of conduct constituting prima facie violations of FCPA by Mr. Okada and certain of his affiliates, and the redemption Aruze's shares, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies."

Because we own real property, we are subject to extensive environmental regulation, which creates uncertainty regarding future environmental expenditures and liabilities.

We have incurred costs to comply with environmental requirements, such as those relating to discharges into the air, water and land, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous waste and the cleanup of properties affected by hazardous substances. Under these and other environmental requirements we may be required to investigate and clean up hazardous or toxic substances or chemical releases at our property. As an owner or operator, we could also be held responsible to a governmental entity or third parties for property damage, personal injury and investigation and cleanup costs incurred by them in connection with any contamination.

These laws typically impose cleanup responsibility and liability without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of or caused the presence of the contaminants. The liability under those laws has been interpreted to be joint and several unless the

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harm is divisible and there is a reasonable basis for allocation of the responsibility. The costs of investigation, remediation or removal of those substances may be substantial, and the presence of those substances, or the failure to remediate a property properly, may impair our ability to use our property.

Contamination has been identified at and in the vicinity of our site in Everett, Massachusetts. The ultimate cost of remediating contaminated sites is difficult to accurately predict and could exceed our current estimates. We may be required to conduct additional investigations and remediation with respect to this site. As a result, we also could incur material costs in excess of our estimates as a result of additional cleanup obligations imposed or contamination identified in the future. However, the environmental laws under which we operate are complicated and often increasingly more stringent, and may be applied retroactively. Although our proposed expenditures related to environmental matters are not currently expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations, we may be required to make additional expenditures to remain in, or to achieve compliance with, environmental laws in the future.

Compliance with changing laws and regulations may result in additional expenses and compliance risks.

Changing laws and regulations are creating uncertainty for gaming companies. These changing laws and regulations are subject to varying interpretations in many cases due to their lack of specificity, recent issuance and/or lack of guidance. As a result, their application in practice may evolve over time as new guidance is provided by regulatory and governing bodies. In addition, further regulation of casinos, financial institutions and public companies is possible. This could result in continuing uncertainty and higher costs regarding compliance matters. Due to our commitment to maintain high standards of compliance with laws and public disclosure, our efforts to comply with evolving laws, regulations and standards have resulted in and are likely to continue to result in increased general and administrative expense. In addition, we are subject to different parties' interpretation of our compliance with these new and changing laws and regulations.

We are subject to taxation by various governments and agencies. The rate of taxation could change.

We are subject to taxation by various governments and agencies, both in the U.S. and in Macau. Changes in the laws and regulations related to taxation, including changes in the rates of taxation, the amount of taxes we owe and the time when income is subject to taxation, our ability to claim U.S. foreign tax credits, failure to renew our Macau dividend agreement and Macau income tax exemption and the imposition of foreign withholding taxes could change our overall effective rate of taxation.

Potential violations of law by Mr. Okada and his affiliates could have adverse consequences to the Company.

The Freeh Report detailed numerous instances of conduct constituting prima facie violations of the FCPA by Mr. Okada and certain of his affiliates. See Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies." The Company has provided the Freeh Report to applicable regulators and has been cooperating with related investigations of such regulators. The conduct of Mr. Okada and his affiliates and the outcome of any resulting regulatory findings could have adverse consequences to the Company. A finding by regulatory authorities that Mr. Okada violated the FCPA on Company property and/or otherwise involved the Company in criminal or civil violations could result in actions by regulatory authorities against the Company. Relatedly, regulators have and may pursue separate investigations into the Company's compliance with applicable laws in connection with the Okada matter, as discussed in Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies." While the Company believes that it is in full compliance with all applicable laws, any such investigations could result in actions by regulators against the Company, which could negatively affect the Company's financial condition and results of operations.

Change in valuation of our Redemption Price Promissory Note could have a negative impact on our financial results.

We record the Redemption Note at fair value in accordance with applicable accounting guidance. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the fair value of the Redemption Note was $1.88 billion and $1.82 billion, respectively. In determining this fair value, we estimated the Redemption Note's present value using discounted cash flows with a probability-weighted expected return for redemption assumptions and a discount rate, which included time value and non-performance risk adjustments commensurate with the risk of the Redemption Note.

Considerations for the redemption assumptions included the stated maturity of the Redemption Note, uncertainty of the related cash flows as well as potential effects of the following: uncertainties surrounding the potential outcome and timing of pending litigation with the Okada Parties (see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies"); the outcome of on-going investigations of Aruze by the United States Attorney's Office, the U.S. Department of Justice and the Nevada Gaming Control Board; and other potential legal and regulatory actions. In

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addition, in the furtherance of various future business objectives, we considered our ability, at our sole option, to prepay the Redemption Note at any time in accordance with its terms without penalty. Accordingly, we reasonably determined that the estimated life of the Redemption Note could be less than the contractual life of the Redemption Note.

In determination of the appropriate discount rate to be used in the estimated present value, the Redemption Note's subordinated position and credit risk relative to all other debt in our capital structure and credit ratings associated with our traded debt were considered. Observable inputs for the risk free rate were based on Federal Reserve rates for U.S. Treasury securities and the credit risk spread was based on a yield curve index of similarly rated debt.

A change in any of the assumptions discussed above could result in a change in the fair value of this Redemption Note and significantly impact our financial results.

Our information technology and other systems are subject to cyber security risk including misappropriation of customer information or other breaches of information security.

We rely on information technology and other systems (including those maintained by third parties with whom we contract to provide data services) to maintain and transmit large volumes of customer financial information, credit card settlements, credit card funds transmissions, mailing lists and reservations information and other personally identifiable information. We also maintain important internal company data such as personally identifiable information about our employees and information relating to our operations. The systems and processes we have implemented to protect customers, employees and company information are subject to the ever-changing risk of compromised security. These risks include cyber and physical security breaches, system failure, computer viruses, and negligent or intentional misuse by customers, company employees, or employees of third-party vendors. The steps we take to deter and mitigate these risks may not be successful and our insurance coverage for protecting against cybersecurity risks may not be sufficient. Our third-party information system service providers face risks relating to cybersecurity similar to ours, and we do not directly control any of such parties' information security operations. A significant theft, loss or fraudulent use of customer or company data maintained by us or by a third-party service provider could have an adverse effect on our reputation, cause a material disruption to our operations and management team, and result in remediation expenses, regulatory penalties and litigation by customers and other parties whose information was subject to such attacks, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and cash flows.

Our collection and use of personal data are governed by privacy laws and regulations, and privacy law is an area that changes often and varies significantly by jurisdiction. Compliance with applicable privacy regulations may increase our operating costs and/or adversely impact our ability to market our products, properties and services to our guests. In addition, non-compliance with applicable privacy regulations by us (or in some circumstances non-compliance by third parties engaged by us) or a breach of security on systems storing our data may result in damage of reputation and/or subject us to fines, payment of damages, lawsuits or restrictions on our use or transfer of data.

If a third party successfully challenges our ownership of, or right to use, the Wynn-related trademarks and/or service marks, our business or results of operations could be harmed.

Our intellectual property assets, especially the logo version of "Wynn," are among our most valuable assets. We have filed applications with the PTO and with various foreign patent and trademark registries including registries in Macau, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, certain European countries and various other jurisdictions throughout the world, to register a variety of WYNN-related trademarks and service marks in connection with a variety of goods and services. These marks include "WYNN RESORTS," "WYNN DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT," "WYNN LAS VEGAS," "WYNN MACAU," "WYNN PALACE" and "ENCORE." Some of the applications are based upon ongoing use and others are based upon a bona fide intent to use the marks in the future.

A common element of most of these marks is the use of the surname "WYNN." As a general rule, a surname (or the portion of a mark primarily constituting a surname) is not eligible for registration unless the surname has acquired "secondary meaning." To date, we have been successful in demonstrating to the PTO such secondary meaning for the Wynn name, in certain of the applications, based upon factors including Mr. Wynn's prominence as a resort developer, but we cannot assure you that we will be successful with the other pending applications.

Federal registrations are not completely dispositive of the right to such marks. Third parties who claim prior rights with respect to similar marks may nonetheless challenge our right to obtain registrations or our use of the marks and seek to overcome the presumptions afforded by such registrations.


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Furthermore, due to the increased use of technology in computerized gaming machines and in business operations generally, other forms of intellectual property rights (such as patents and copyrights) are becoming of increased relevance. It is possible that, in the future, third parties might assert superior intellectual property rights or allege that their intellectual property rights cover some aspect of our operations. The defense of such allegations may result in substantial expenses, and, if such claims are successfully prosecuted, may have a material impact on our business. There has been an increase in the international operation of fraudulent online gambling and investment websites attempting to scam and defraud members of the public. We do not offer online gambling or investment accounts. Websites offering these or similar activities and opportunities that use our names or similar names or images in likeness to ours, are doing so without our authorization and possibly unlawfully and with criminal intent. If our efforts to cause these sites to be shut down through civil action and by reporting these sites to the appropriate authorities (where applicable) are unsuccessful or not timely completed, these unauthorized activities may continue and harm our reputation and negatively affect our business. Efforts we take to acquire and protect our intellectual property rights against unauthorized use throughout the world, which may include retaining counsel and commencing litigation in various jurisdictions, may be costly and may not be successful in protecting and preserving the status and value of our intellectual property assets.

Our insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover all possible losses that we could suffer, including losses resulting from terrorism, and our insurance costs may increase.

We have comprehensive property and liability insurance policies for our properties with coverage features and insured limits that we believe are customary in their breadth and scope. However, in the event of a substantial loss, the insurance coverage we carry may not be sufficient to pay the full market value or replacement cost of our lost investment or could result in certain losses being totally uninsured. As a result, we could lose some or all of the capital we have invested in a property, as well as the anticipated future revenue from the property, and we could remain obligated for debt or other financial obligations related to the property.

Market forces beyond our control may limit the scope of the insurance coverage we can obtain in the future or our ability to obtain coverage at reasonable rates. Certain catastrophic losses may be uninsurable or too expensive to justify obtaining insurance. As a result, if we suffer such a catastrophic loss, we may not be successful in obtaining future insurance without increases in cost or decreases in coverage levels. Furthermore, our debt instruments and other material agreements require us to maintain a certain minimum level of insurance. Failure to satisfy these requirements could result in an event of default under these debt instruments or material agreements, which would negatively affect our business and financial condition.

Risks Associated with our Macau Operations

Our Macau Operations may be affected by adverse political and economic conditions.

Our Macau Operations are subject to significant political, economic and social risks inherent in doing business in an emerging market. The future success of our Macau Operations will depend on political and economic conditions in Macau and mainland China. For example, fiscal decline and civil, domestic or international unrest in Macau, China or the surrounding region could significantly harm our business, not only by reducing customer demand for casino resorts, but also by increasing the risk of imposition of taxes and exchange controls or other governmental restrictions, laws or regulations that might impede our Macau Operations or our ability to repatriate funds.

Revenues from our Macau gaming operations will end if we cannot secure an extension of our concession in 2022 or if the Macau government exercises its redemption right.

Our concession agreement with the Macau government expires in June 2022. Unless our concession is extended, in June 2022, all of our gaming operations and related equipment in Macau will be automatically transferred to the Macau government without compensation to us and we will cease to generate any revenues from these operations. The Macau government has publicly commented that it is studying the process by which concessions and subconcessions may be renewed. Effective June 2017, the Macau government may redeem the concession agreement by providing us at least one year's prior notice. In the event the Macau government exercises this redemption right, we are entitled to fair compensation or indemnity. The amount of such compensation or indemnity will be determined based on the amount of revenue generated during the tax year prior to the redemption multiplied by the remaining years under the concession. We may not be able to renew or extend our concession agreement on terms favorable to us or at all and, if our concession is redeemed, the compensation paid to us may not be adequate to compensate us for the loss of future revenues. The redemption of or failure to extend our concession would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.


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We compete for limited labor resources in Macau and Macau government policies may also affect our ability to employ imported labor.

The success of our operations in Macau will be affected by our success in hiring and retaining employees. We compete with a large number of casino resorts in Macau for a limited number of qualified employees. In addition, the Macau government requires that we only hire Macau residents as dealers in our casinos. Competition for these individuals in Macau has increased and will continue to increase as other competitors expand their operations. We have to seek employees from other countries to adequately staff our resorts and certain Macau government policies affect our ability to import labor in certain job classifications. Despite our coordination with the Macau labor and immigration authorities to assure that our labor needs are satisfied, we may not be able to recruit and retain a sufficient number of qualified employees for our operations or obtain required work permits for those employees. If we are unable to obtain, attract, retain and train skilled employees, our ability to adequately manage and staff our existing and planned casino and resort properties in Macau could be impaired, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

The smoking control legislation in Macau could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

In 2014, the Macau government approved additional smoking control legislation, which prohibited smoking in casinos starting on October 6, 2014. The legislation, however, permits casinos to maintain certain limited smoking areas open to VIP patrons if such areas are within restricted access areas, comply with certain square footage ratios based on overall gaming area square footage and comply with the conditions set out in the Dispatch of the Chief Executive, dated November 1, 2012, as amended by the Dispatch of the Chief Executive, dated June 3, 2014. Prior public announcements by the Macau government indicated that the Macau government intended to pursue a full smoking ban within all Macau casinos, however, a new tobacco control law went into effect on January 1, 2018 requiring casinos to prohibit smoking in the currently permissible areas by December 31, 2018, and construct smoking lounges in accordance with certain stringent technical standards still to be determined. The existing smoking legislation, and any smoking legislation intended to fully ban all smoking in casinos, may deter potential gaming customers who are smokers from frequenting casinos in Macau and disrupt the number of patrons visiting or the amount of time visiting patrons spend at our property, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Macau may not have an adequate transportation infrastructure to accommodate the demand of visitors to Macau.

Because of additional casino projects that are under construction and to be developed in the future, the ferry and helicopter services, which provide transportation between Macau, Hong Kong, and mainland China may need to be expanded to accommodate the increased visitation to Macau. If transportation facilities to and from Macau are inadequate to meet the demands of an increased volume of gaming customers visiting Macau, the desirability of Macau as a gaming destination, as well as the results of operations of our Macau Operations, could be negatively impacted. Furthermore, construction of current and future casino and infrastructure projects, adjacent to our properties could impede access to our properties during construction and development. This may negatively impact the results of our Macau Operations.

Extreme weather conditions may have an adverse impact on our Macau Operations.

Macau's subtropical climate and location on the South China Sea are subject to extreme weather conditions including typhoons and heavy rainstorms. Unfavorable weather conditions could negatively affect the profitability of our resorts and prevent or discourage guests from traveling to Macau.

If our Macau Operations fail to comply with the concession agreement, the Macau government can terminate our concession without compensation to us, which would have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

The Macau government has the right to unilaterally terminate our concession in the event of our material non-compliance with the basic obligations under the concession and applicable Macau laws. The concession agreement expressly provides that the government of Macau may unilaterally rescind the concession agreement of our Macau Operations if it:

•
conducts unauthorized games or activities that are excluded from its corporate purpose;
•
suspends gaming operations in Macau for more than seven consecutive days (or more than 14 days in a civil year) without justification;
•
defaults in payment of taxes, premiums, contributions or other required amounts;
•
does not comply with government inspections or supervision;
•
systematically fails to observe its obligations under the concession system;

27

•
fails to maintain bank guarantees or bonds satisfactory to the government;
•
is the subject of bankruptcy proceedings or becomes insolvent;
•
engages in serious fraudulent activity, damaging to the public interest; or
•
repeatedly violates applicable gaming laws.

If the government of Macau unilaterally rescinds the concession agreement, our Macau Operations will be required to compensate the government in accordance with applicable law, and the areas defined as casino space under Macau law and all of the gaming equipment pertaining to our gaming operations will be transferred to the government without compensation. The loss of our concession would prohibit us from conducting gaming operations in Macau, which would have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

Certain Nevada gaming laws apply to our Macau Operations' gaming activities and associations.

Certain Nevada gaming laws also apply to gaming activities and associations in jurisdictions outside the State of Nevada. With respect to our Macau Operations, we and our subsidiaries that must be licensed to conduct gaming operations in Nevada are required to comply with certain reporting requirements concerning gaming activities and associations in Macau conducted by our Macau-related subsidiaries. We and our licensed Nevada subsidiaries also will be subject to disciplinary action by the NGC if our Macau-related subsidiaries:

•
knowingly violate any Macau laws relating to their Macau gaming operations;
•
fail to conduct our Macau Operations in accordance with the standards of honesty and integrity required of Nevada gaming operations;
•
engage in any activity or enter into any association that is unsuitable for us because it poses an unreasonable threat to the control of gaming in Nevada, reflects or tends to reflect discredit or disrepute upon the State of Nevada or gaming in Nevada, or is contrary to Nevada gaming policies;
•
engage in any activity or enter into any association that interferes with the ability of the State of Nevada to collect gaming taxes and fees; or
•
employ, contract with or associate with any person in the foreign gaming operation who has been denied a license or a finding of suitability in Nevada on the ground of unsuitability, or who has been found guilty of cheating at gambling.

Such disciplinary action could include suspension, conditioning, limitation or revocation of the registration, licenses or approvals held by us and our licensed Nevada subsidiaries, including Wynn Las Vegas, LLC, and the imposition of substantial fines.

In addition, if the Nevada Gaming Control Board determines that any actual or intended activities or associations of our Macau-related subsidiaries may be prohibited pursuant to one or more of the standards described above, the Nevada Gaming Control Board can require us and our licensed Nevada subsidiaries to file an application with the NGC for a finding of suitability of the activity or association. If the NGC finds that the activity or association in Macau is unsuitable or prohibited, our Macau-related subsidiaries will either be required to terminate the activity or association, or will be prohibited from undertaking the activity or association. Consequently, should the NGC find that our Macau-related subsidiary's gaming activities or associations in Macau are unsuitable, those subsidiaries may be prohibited from undertaking their planned gaming activities or associations in Macau, or be required to divest their investment in Macau, possibly on unfavorable terms.

We depend upon gaming promoters for a significant portion of our gaming revenue. If we are unable to maintain, or develop additional, successful relationships with reputable gaming promoters, our ability to maintain or grow our gaming revenues could be adversely affected.

We may lose the clientele of our gaming promoters, who generate a significant portion of our gaming revenue. There is intense competition among casino operators in Macau for services provided by gaming promoters, which has intensified as additional casinos open in Macau. If we are unable to maintain, or develop additional, successful relationships with reputable gaming promoters, or lose a significant number of our gaming promoters to our competitors, our ability to maintain or grow our gaming revenues will be adversely affected and we will have to seek alternative ways of developing relationships with VIP customers. In addition, if our gaming promoters are unable to develop or maintain relationships with our VIP customers, our ability to maintain or grow our gaming revenues will be hampered.


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The financial resources of our gaming promoters may be insufficient to allow them to continue doing business in Macau which could adversely affect our business and financial condition. Our gaming promoters may experience difficulty in attracting patrons.

Economic and political factors in the region may cause our gaming promoters to experience difficulties in their Macau operations, including intensified competition in attracting patrons to come to Macau. Further, gaming promoters may face a decrease in liquidity, limiting their ability to grant credit to their patrons, and difficulties in collecting credit they extended previously. The inability to attract sufficient patrons, grant credit and collect amounts due in a timely manner may negatively affect our gaming promoters' operations, causing gaming promoters to wind up or liquidate their operations or resulting in some of our gaming promoters leaving Macau. Current and any future difficulties could have an adverse impact on our results of operations.

Increased competition for the services of gaming promoters may require us to pay increased commission rates to gaming promoters.

Certain gaming promoters have significant leverage and bargaining strength in negotiating operational agreements with casino operators. This leverage could result in gaming promoters negotiating changes to our operational agreements, including higher commissions, or the loss of business to a competitor or the loss of certain relationships with gaming promoters. If we need to increase our commission rates or otherwise change our practices with respect to gaming promoters due to competitive forces, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Failure by the gaming promoters with whom we work to comply with Macau gaming laws and high standards of probity and integrity might affect our reputation and ability to comply with the requirements of our concession, Macau gaming laws and other gaming licenses.

The reputations and probity of the gaming promoters with whom we work are important to our own reputation and to our ability to operate in compliance with our concession, Macau gaming laws and other gaming licenses. We conduct periodic reviews of the probity and compliance programs of our gaming promoters. However, we are not able to control our gaming promoters' compliance with these high standards of probity and integrity, and our gaming promoters may violate provisions in their contracts with us designed to ensure such compliance. In addition, if we enter into a new business relationship with a gaming promoter whose probity is in doubt, this may be considered by regulators or investors to reflect negatively on our own probity. If our gaming promoters are unable to maintain required standards of probity and integrity, we may face consequences from gaming regulators with authority over our operations. Furthermore, if any of our gaming promoters violate the Macau gaming laws while on our premises, the Macau government may, in its discretion, take enforcement action against us, the gaming promoter, or each concurrently, and we may be sanctioned and our reputation could be harmed.

Unfavorable changes in currency exchange rates may increase our Macau Operations' obligations under the concession agreement and cause fluctuations in the value of our investment in Macau.

The currency delineated in our Macau Operations' concession agreement with the government of Macau is the Macau pataca. The Macau pataca is linked to the Hong Kong dollar, and the two are often used interchangeably in Macau. The Hong Kong dollar is linked to the U.S. dollar and the exchange rate between these two currencies has remained relatively stable over the past several years. However, the exchange linkages of the Hong Kong dollar and the Macau pataca, and the Hong Kong dollar and the U.S. dollar, are subject to potential changes due to changes in Chinese governmental policies and international economic and political developments.

If the Hong Kong dollar and the Macau pataca are no longer linked to the U.S. dollar, the exchange rate for these currencies may severely fluctuate. The current rate of exchange fixed by the applicable monetary authorities for these currencies may also change.

Because many of our Macau Operations' payment and expenditure obligations are in Macau patacas, in the event of unfavorable Macau pataca or Hong Kong dollar rate changes, our Macau Operations' obligations, as denominated in U.S. dollars, would increase. In addition, because we expect that most of the revenues for any casino that we operate in Macau will be in Hong Kong dollars, we are subject to foreign exchange risk with respect to the exchange rate between the Hong Kong dollar and the U.S. dollar. Also, if any of our Macau-related entities incur U.S. dollar-denominated debt, fluctuations in the exchange rates of the Macau pataca or the Hong Kong dollar, in relation to the U.S. dollar, could have adverse effects on our results of operations, financial condition and ability to service our debt.


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Currency exchange controls and currency export restrictions could negatively impact our Macau Operations.

Currency exchange controls and restrictions on the export of currency by certain countries may negatively impact the success of our Macau Operations. For example, there are currently existing currency exchange controls and restrictions on the export of the renminbi, the currency of China. Restrictions on the export of the renminbi may impede the flow of gaming customers from China to Macau, inhibit the growth of gaming in Macau and negatively impact our Macau Operations.

Our Macau subsidiaries' indebtedness is secured by a substantial portion of their assets.

Subject to applicable laws, including gaming laws, and certain agreed upon exceptions, our Macau subsidiaries' debt is secured by liens on substantially all of their assets. In the event of a default by such subsidiaries under their financing documents, or if such subsidiaries experience insolvency, liquidation, dissolution or reorganization, the holders of such secured debt would first be entitled to payment from their collateral security, and only then would holders of our Macau subsidiaries' unsecured debt be entitled to payment from their remaining assets.

Conflicts of interest may arise because certain of our directors and officers are also directors of Wynn Macau, Limited.

Wynn Macau, Limited, an indirect majority owned subsidiary of Wynn Resorts and the developer, owner and operator of Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace, listed its ordinary shares of common stock on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited in October 2009. As of December 31, 2017, Wynn Resorts owns approximately 72% of Wynn Macau, Limited's ordinary shares of common stock. As a result of Wynn Macau, Limited having stockholders who are not affiliated with us, we and certain of our officers and directors who also serve as officers and/or directors of Wynn Macau, Limited may have conflicting fiduciary obligations to our stockholders and to the minority stockholders of Wynn Macau, Limited. Decisions that could have different implications for Wynn Resorts and Wynn Macau, Limited, including contractual arrangements that we have entered into or may in the future enter into with Wynn Macau, Limited, may give rise to the appearance of a potential conflict of interest.

The Macau government has established a maximum number of gaming tables that can be operated in Macau and has limited the number of new gaming tables at new gaming areas in Macau.

In connection with the opening of Wynn Palace, the DICJ authorized 100 new table games for operation at Wynn Palace, with 25 additional table games authorized for operation on January 1, 2017, and a further 25 new table games for operation on January 1, 2018, for a total of 150 new table games in the aggregate. In addition, we have and will continue to transfer table games between Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace, subject to the aggregate cap. As of February 15, 2018, we had a total of 316 table games at Wynn Macau and 323 at Wynn Palace. The mix of table games in operation at Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace changes from time to time as a result of marketing and operating strategies in response to changing market demand and industry competition. Failure to shift the mix of our table games in anticipation of market demands and industry trends may negatively impact our operating results.

Risks Related to Share Ownership and Stockholder Matters

Our largest stockholders are able to exert significant influence over our operations and future direction.

As of December 31, 2017, Mr. Wynn and Elaine P. Wynn owned 12,131,707 shares and 9,539,077 shares, respectively, or in the aggregate approximately 21.1%, of our outstanding common stock. As a result, Mr. Wynn and Elaine P. Wynn, to the extent they vote their shares in a similar manner, may be able to exert significant influence over all matters requiring our stockholders' approval, including the approval of significant corporate transactions.

Under the Stockholders Agreement, Mr. Wynn and Elaine P. Wynn have agreed to vote the shares of Wynn Resorts' common stock held by them that are subject to the terms of the Stockholders Agreement in a manner so as to elect to our Board of Directors each of the nominees contained on each and every slate of directors endorsed by Mr. Wynn. As a result of this voting arrangement, Mr. Wynn, as a practical matter, exercises significant influence over the slate of directors to be elected to Wynn Resorts' Board of Directors. In addition, with stated exceptions, the Stockholders Agreement requires the written consent of the other party prior to any party selling any shares of Wynn Resorts' common stock that it owns.

In June 2012, in connection with the pending litigation between the Company and Aruze, Elaine P. Wynn submitted a cross claim against Mr. Wynn and Mr. Okada seeking to void the Stockholders Agreement. The cross claim, if successful, could increase the possibility of a change in control under the Wynn Las Vegas, LLC debt documents. On February 12, 2018, counsel for Mr. Wynn advised the court hearing this matter that Mr. Wynn now agrees that the Stockholders Agreement no longer binds either Mr. Wynn or Elaine P. Wynn. There can be no assurance that the court will concur with the position now taken by

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Mr. Wynn, or that the Stockholders Agreement will in fact be deemed to no longer bind the parties thereto. For additional information on the cross claim, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies."

In November 2006, the Board of Directors of Wynn Resorts approved an amendment of its bylaws that exempts future acquisitions of shares of Wynn Resorts' common stock by either Mr. Wynn or Aruze from Nevada's acquisition of controlling interest statutes. In light of the determination by the Board of Directors on February 18, 2012 that each of the Okada Parties is an "Unsuitable Person" under the Company's articles of incorporation and the redemption and cancellation of Aruze's shares of Company common stock, our Fifth Amended and Restated Bylaws amended these provisions to delete the reference to Aruze and its affiliates. The Nevada acquisition of controlling interest statutes require stockholder approval in order to exercise voting rights in connection with any acquisition of a controlling interest in certain Nevada corporations unless the articles of incorporation or bylaws of the corporation in effect on the 10th day following the acquisition of a controlling interest by certain acquiring persons provide that these statutes do not apply to the corporation or to the acquisition specifically by types of existing or future stockholders. These statutes define a "controlling interest" as (i) one-fifth or more but less than one third, (ii) one-third or more but less than a majority, or (iii) a majority or more, of the voting power in the election of directors. As a result of these bylaw provisions, Mr. Wynn or his affiliates may acquire ownership of outstanding voting shares of Wynn Resorts permitting him or them to exercise more than one-third but less than a majority, or a majority or more, of all of the voting power of the Company in the election of directors, without requiring a resolution of the Company's stockholders granting voting rights in the control shares acquired.

Our stock price may be volatile.

The trading price of our common stock has been and may continue to be subject to wide fluctuations. Our stock price may fluctuate in response to a number of events and factors, such as general United States, China, and world economic and financial conditions, our own quarterly variations in operating results, increased competition, changes in financial estimates and recommendations by securities analysts, changes in applicable laws or regulations, and changes affecting the travel industry, and other events impacting our business. The stock market in general, and prices for companies in our industry in particular, has experienced extreme volatility that may be unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market and industry fluctuations may adversely affect the price of our common stock, regardless of our operating performance.

Risks Related to our Indebtedness

We are highly leveraged and future cash flow may not be sufficient for us to meet our obligations, and we might have difficulty obtaining more financing.

We have a substantial amount of consolidated debt in relation to our equity. As of December 31, 2017, we had total outstanding debt of approximately $9.63 billion, which includes a portion of the funds we expect to need for the development and construction of our current projects. We may, however, incur additional indebtedness in connection with the construction of these projects. See Item 1—Business "Construction and Development Opportunities." In addition, we are permitted to incur additional indebtedness if certain conditions are met, including conditions under our Wynn Macau Credit Facilities, our Wynn America Credit Facilities and our Wynn Las Vegas, LLC indentures in connection with other future potential development plans. On February 18, 2012, we issued a Redemption Note with a principal amount of approximately $1.94 billion in redemption of all of the shares of Wynn Resorts common stock held by Aruze. As of December 31, 2017, the fair value of the Redemption Note was $1.88 billion. For additional information on the redemption and the Redemption Note, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies."

Our indebtedness could have important consequences. For example:

•
failure to meet our payment obligations or other obligations could result in acceleration of our indebtedness, foreclosure upon our assets that serve as collateral or bankruptcy and trigger cross defaults under other agreements;
•
servicing our indebtedness requires a substantial portion of our cash flow from the operations of our Las Vegas and Macau Operations and reduces the amount of available cash, if any, to fund working capital and other cash requirements or pay for other capital expenditures;
•
the Okada Parties have challenged the redemption of Aruze's shares and we are currently involved in litigation with those parties as well as related stockholder derivative litigation. The outcome of these various proceedings cannot be predicted. Any adverse judgments or settlements involving payment of a material sum of money could cause a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations and could expose us to additional claims by third parties including current or former investors or regulators. Any

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adverse judgments or settlements would reduce our profits and could limit our ability to operate our business. See Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies";
•
we may not be able to obtain additional financing, if needed; and
•
rates with respect to a portion of the interest we pay will fluctuate with market rates and, accordingly, our interest expense will increase if market interest rates increase.

Under the terms of the documents governing our debt facilities, subject to certain limitations, we are permitted to incur indebtedness. If we incur additional indebtedness, the risks described above will be exacerbated.

The agreements governing our debt facilities contain certain covenants that restrict our ability to engage in certain transactions and may impair our ability to respond to changing business and economic conditions.

Some of our debt facilities require us to satisfy various financial covenants, which include requirements for minimum interest coverage ratios and leverage ratios pertaining to total debt to earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization and a minimum earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. For more information on financial covenants we are subject to under our debt facilities, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 7, "Long-Term Debt." Future indebtedness or other contracts could contain covenants more restrictive than those contained in our existing debt facilities.

The agreements governing our debt facilities also contain restrictions on our ability to engage in certain transactions and may limit our ability to respond to changing business and economic conditions. These restrictions include, among other things, limitations on our ability and the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to:

•
pay dividends or distributions or repurchase equity;
•
incur additional debt;
•
make investments;
•
create liens on assets to secure debt;
•
enter into transactions with affiliates;
•
issue stock of, or member's interests in, subsidiaries;
•
enter into sale-leaseback transactions;
•
engage in other businesses;
•
merge or consolidate with another company;
•
undergo a change of control;
•
transfer, sell or otherwise dispose of assets;
•
issue disqualified stock;
•
create dividend and other payment restrictions affecting subsidiaries; and
•
designate restricted and unrestricted subsidiaries.

Our ability to comply with the terms of our outstanding facilities may be affected by general economic conditions, industry conditions and other events outside of our control. As a result, we may not be able to maintain compliance with these covenants. If our properties' operations fail to generate adequate cash flow, we may violate those covenants, causing a default under our agreements, which would materially and adversely affect our operating results and our financial condition or result in our lenders or holders of our debt taking action to enforce their security interests in our various assets or cause all outstanding amounts to be due and payable immediately.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.


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Item 2. Properties

The following table presents our significant land holdings. We own or have obtained the right to use these properties. We also own or lease various other improved and unimproved properties associated with our development projects.
Property
 
Approximate Acres
 
Location
 
 
 
 
 
Macau Operations (1)
 
 
 
 
Wynn Macau
 
16
 
Located in downtown Macau's inner harbor.
Wynn Palace
 
51
 
Located in the Cotai area of Macau.
 
 
67
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Las Vegas Operations
 
 
 
 
Wynn Las Vegas (main parcel)
 
75
 
Located at the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Sands Avenue.
Golf course land (2)
 
140
 
Located adjacent to Wynn Las Vegas.
Employee parking lot and office building
 
18
 
Located across Sands Avenue.
Office building
 
5
 
Located adjacent to golf course land.
 
 
238
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wynn Boston Harbor (3)
 
33
 
Located in Everett, Massachusetts, adjacent to Boston along the Mystic River.
 
 
 
 
 
Other (4)
 
38
 
Located on the Las Vegas Strip directly across from Wynn Las Vegas.

(1) The government of Macau owns most of the land in Macau. In most cases, private interests in real property located in Macau are obtained through long-term leases known as concessions and other grants of rights to use land from the government. Wynn Macau is leased under a land concession contract with a term of 25 years from August 2004, which may be renewed with government approval for successive periods. Wynn Palace is leased under a land concession contract with a term of 25 years from May 2012, which may be renewed with government approval for successive periods.
(2) We own approximately 834 acre-feet of permitted and certificated water rights, which we used to irrigate the golf course prior to its closing in the fourth quarter of 2017. We also own approximately 151.5 acre-feet of permitted and certificated water rights for commercial use. There are significant cost savings and conservation benefits associated with using water supplied pursuant to our water rights. We anticipate using our water rights to support the redevelopment of the golf course land.
(3) This integrated resort is currently under construction and is expected to open in mid-2019.
(4) Subsequent to December 31, 2017, we acquired approximately 38 acres of land, of which approximately 16 acres are subject to a ground lease that expires in 2097. As part of this acquisition, we acquired approximately 24 acre-feet of permitted and certificated water rights. We expect to use this land for future development.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

We are occasionally party to lawsuits. As with all litigation, no assurance can be provided as to the outcome of such matters and we note that litigation inherently involves significant costs. See Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 14, "Commitments and Contingencies—Litigation" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference, and Item 1A—"Risk Factors" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

CCAC Information Request

In July 2014, Wynn Macau SA was contacted by the Commission Against Corruption of Macau ("CCAC") requesting certain information related to its land in the Cotai area of Macau. Wynn Macau SA has cooperated with CCAC's request.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.

33

PART II

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Market Information

Our common stock trades on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol "WYNN." The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices for the indicated periods, as reported by the Nasdaq Global Select Market.
 
High
 
Low
2018
 
 
 
First Quarter (through February 15, 2018)
$
203.63

 
$
160.38

2017
 
 
 
First Quarter
$
116.19

 
$
86.20

Second Quarter
$
139.67

 
$
112.91

Third Quarter
$
150.15

 
$
124.11

Fourth Quarter
$
171.06

 
$
139.20

2016
 
 
 
First Quarter
$
96.60

 
$
49.95

Second Quarter
$
105.69

 
$
85.72

Third Quarter
$
109.50

 
$
87.26

Fourth Quarter
$
104.90

 
$
82.51


Holders

There were approximately 165 holders of record of our common stock as of February 15, 2018.

Dividends

Wynn Resorts is a holding company and, as a result, our ability to pay dividends is highly dependent on our ability to obtain funds and our subsidiaries' ability to provide funds to us. Restrictions imposed by our subsidiaries' debt instruments significantly restrict certain key subsidiaries, including Wynn America and Wynn Macau SA, from making dividends or distributions to Wynn Resorts. These restrictions are subject to certain exceptions for affiliated overhead expenses as defined in the agreements governing the debt instruments, unless certain financial and non-financial criteria have been satisfied.

In each quarter of 2017 and 2016, the Company paid a cash dividend of $0.50 per share, for annual cash dividends of $2.00 per share.

On January 22, 2018, the Company announced a cash dividend of $0.50 per share, payable on February 27, 2018, to stockholders of record as of February 15, 2018.

Our Board of Directors will continue to periodically assess the level and appropriateness of any cash dividends.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

In November 2017, we repurchased 630 shares in satisfaction of tax withholding obligations on vested restricted stock at an average price of $150.09 per share, for a total amount of $0.1 million.

In December 2017, we repurchased 54,768 shares in satisfaction of tax withholding obligations on vested restricted stock at an average price of $167.75 per share, for a total amount of $9.2 million.

None of the foregoing repurchases that occurred in November 2017 and December 2017 were part of the Company's publicly announced repurchase program, which is discussed in Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 9, "Stockholders' Equity."


34

Stock Performance Graph

The graph below compares the five-year cumulative total return on our common stock to the cumulative total return of the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index ("S&P 500") and the Dow Jones US Gambling Index. The performance graph assumes that $100 was invested on December 31, 2012 in each of the Company's common stock, the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones US Gambling Index, and that all dividends were reinvested. The stock price performance shown in this graph is neither necessarily indicative of, nor intended to suggest, future stock price performance.


COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*
Among Wynn Resorts Ltd., the S&P 500 Index,
and the Dow Jones US Gambling Index


chart-8dd89296231656dc984.jpg
*$100 invested on 12/31/12 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. Fiscal year ending December 31.
Copyright © 2018 S&P, a division of McGraw Hill Financial. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2018 Dow Jones & Co. All rights reserved.



35

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The following financial information for each of the five years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 has been derived from our consolidated financial statements. This selected consolidated financial data should be read together with Item 7—"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," our consolidated financial statements and related notes and other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Operating results for the periods presented are not indicative of the results that may be expected for future years.

 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017 (1)
 
2016 (2)
 
2015
 
2014
 
2013
 
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Consolidated Statements of Income Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net revenues
$
6,306,368

 
$
4,466,297

 
$
4,075,883

 
$
5,433,661

 
$
5,620,936

Pre-opening expenses
26,692

 
154,717

 
77,623

 
30,146

 
3,169

Operating income
1,055,565

 
521,662

 
658,814

 
1,266,278

 
1,290,091

Net income
889,254

 
302,469

 
281,524

 
962,644

 
1,004,157

Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(142,073
)
 
(60,494
)
 
(86,234
)
 
(231,090
)
 
(275,505
)
Net income attributable to Wynn Resorts, Limited
747,181

 
241,975

 
195,290

 
731,554

 
728,652

Basic income per share
$
7.32

 
$
2.39

 
$
1.93

 
$
7.25

 
$
7.25

Diluted income per share
$
7.28

 
$
2.38

 
$
1.92

 
$
7.18

 
$
7.17

 
December 31,
 
2017 (1)
 
2016 (2)
 
2015
 
2014
 
2013
 
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Consolidated Balance Sheets Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
2,804,474

 
$
2,453,122

 
$
2,080,089

 
$
2,182,164

 
$
2,435,041

Construction in progress
1,016,207

 
299,686

 
3,217,117

 
1,666,326

 
558,624

Total assets
12,681,739

 
11,953,557

 
10,459,159

 
9,001,919

 
8,332,133

Total long-term obligations (3)
9,673,099

 
10,279,375

 
9,327,143

 
7,482,510

 
6,748,283

Stockholders' equity
1,078,350

 
257,881

 
21,845

 
211,091

 
132,351

Cash dividends declared per common share
$
2.00

 
$
2.00

 
$
3.00

 
$
6.25

 
$
7.00


(1)
During the fourth quarter of 2017, we recorded a provisional income tax benefit of $339.9 million related to the enactment of U.S. tax reform. See Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 13, "Income Taxes."
(2)
Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.
(3)
Includes long-term debt, other long-term liabilities, deferred income tax liabilities, net and the required contract premium payments under our land concession contracts at Wynn Palace.


36

Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with, and is qualified in its entirety by, the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Overview

We are a developer, owner and operator of destination casino resorts (integrated resorts). In Macau, we own approximately 72% of WML, which includes the operations of the Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace resorts. In Las Vegas, Nevada, we operate and, with the exception of certain retail space, own 100% of Wynn Las Vegas. We are currently constructing Wynn Boston Harbor, an integrated casino resort in Everett, Massachusetts.

Macau Operations

Wynn Macau features two luxury hotel towers with a total of 1,008 guest rooms and suites, approximately 273,000 square feet of casino space, eight food and beverage outlets, approximately 31,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, approximately 59,000 square feet of retail space, a rotunda show and recreation and leisure facilities.

On August 22, 2016, we opened Wynn Palace, an integrated resort in the Cotai area of Macau. Wynn Palace features a luxury hotel tower with 1,706 guest rooms, suites and villas, approximately 420,000 square feet of casino space, 11 food and beverage outlets, approximately 37,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, approximately 106,000 square feet of retail space, public attractions, including a performance lake and floral art displays, and recreation and leisure facilities.

Las Vegas Operations

Wynn Las Vegas features two luxury hotel towers with a total of 4,748 guest rooms, suites and villas, approximately 192,000 square feet of casino space, 33 food and beverage outlets, approximately 290,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, approximately 110,000 square feet of retail space (of which 103,000 square feet is owned and operated under a joint venture arrangement of which we own 50.1%), as well as two theaters, three nightclubs, a beach club, and recreation and leisure facilities.

In December 2016, we entered into the Retail Joint Venture with Crown to own and operate approximately 88,000 square feet of existing retail space. In November 2017, we contributed approximately 74,000 square feet of additional retail space to the Retail Joint Venture, the majority of which is currently under construction at Wynn Las Vegas. We expect to open the additional retail space in the second half of 2018. For more information on the Retail Joint Venture, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 3, "Retail Joint Venture."
Development Projects

We are currently constructing Wynn Boston Harbor, an integrated resort in Everett, Massachusetts, adjacent to Boston along the Mystic River. The resort will contain a hotel, a waterfront boardwalk, meeting and convention space, casino space, a spa, retail offerings and food and beverage outlets. The total project budget, including gaming license fees, construction costs, capitalized interest, pre-opening expenses and land costs, is estimated to be approximately $2.5 billion. As of December 31, 2017, we have incurred approximately $1.13 billion in total project costs. We expect to open Wynn Boston Harbor in mid-2019.

We have begun site preparation and pre-construction activities for the redevelopment of the land previously occupied by the Wynn Las Vegas golf course, which we closed in the fourth quarter of 2017. Phase 1 of the project is expected to include a lagoon and additional meeting and convention space. Based on current designs, we estimate the total project budget for Phase 1 to be approximately $500 million and we expect to open Phase 1 in the first half of 2020.

We continually seek out new opportunities for additional gaming or related businesses, in the United States, and worldwide.

Key Operating Measures

Certain key operating measures specific to the gaming industry are included in our discussion of our operational performance for the periods for which the Consolidated Statements of Income are presented. Below are definitions of these key operating measures discussed:


37

•
Table drop for our Macau Operations is the amount of cash that is deposited in a gaming table's drop box plus cash chips purchased at the casino cage.
•
Table drop for our Las Vegas Operations is the amount of cash and net markers issued that are deposited in a gaming table's drop box.
•
Rolling chips are identifiable chips that are used to track turnover for purposes of calculating incentives.
•
Turnover is the sum of all losing rolling chip wagers within our Macau Operations' VIP program.
•
Table games win is the amount of table drop or turnover that is retained and recorded as casino revenues.
•
Slot machine win is the amount of handle (representing the total amount wagered) that is retained by us and is recorded as casino revenues.
•
Average daily rate ("ADR") is calculated by dividing total room revenues, including the retail value of promotional allowances (less service charges, if any), by total rooms occupied, including complimentary rooms.
•
Revenue per available room ("REVPAR") is calculated by dividing total room revenues, including the retail value of promotional allowances (less service charges, if any), by total rooms available.
•
Occupancy is calculated by dividing total occupied rooms, including complimentary rooms, by the total rooms available.

Below is a discussion of the methodologies used to calculate win percentages at our resorts.

In our VIP operations in Macau, customers primarily purchase rolling chips from the casino cage and can only use them to make wagers. Winning wagers are paid in cash chips. The loss of the rolling chips in the VIP operations is recorded as turnover and provides a base for calculating VIP win percentage. It is customary in Macau to measure VIP play using this rolling chip method. We expect our win as a percentage of turnover from these operations to be within the range of 2.7% to 3.0%. In our mass market operations in Macau, customers may purchase cash chips at either the gaming tables or at the casino cage.

The measurements from our VIP and mass market operations are not comparable as the measurement method used in our mass market operations tracks the initial purchase of chips at the table and at the casino cage, while the measurement method from our VIP operations tracks the sum of all losing wagers. Accordingly, the base measurement from the VIP operations is much larger than the base measurement from the mass market operations. As a result, the expected win percentage with the same amount of gaming win is smaller in the VIP operations when compared to the mass market operations.

In Las Vegas, customers purchase chips at the gaming tables. The cash and net markers used to purchase chips are deposited in the gaming table's drop box. This is the base of measurement that we use for calculating win percentage in Las Vegas. Each type of table game has its own theoretical win percentage. Our expected table games win percentage in Las Vegas is 21% to 25%.

Results of Operations

Summary annual results

The following table summarizes our financial results for the periods presented (in thousands, except per share data).
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net revenues
$
6,306,368

 
$
4,466,297

 
$
4,075,883

Net income attributable to Wynn Resorts, Limited
747,181

 
241,975

 
195,290

Diluted net income per share
7.28

 
2.38

 
1.92

Adjusted Property EBITDA
1,810,732

 
1,259,327

 
1,185,789


During the year ended December 31, 2017, our net income attributable to Wynn Resorts, Limited was $747.2 million, or $7.28 per diluted share, an increase of 208.8%, or $505.2 million, compared to $242.0 million, or $2.38 per diluted share, for the same period of 2016. The increase in net income attributable to Wynn Resorts, Limited was primarily the result of the provisional income tax benefit from U.S. tax reform and increases in operating income from Wynn Palace, Wynn Macau and our Las Vegas Operations, partially offset by increases in the Redemption Note fair value and interest expense as we are no longer capitalizing interest on Wynn Palace. Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016, with our results for the year ended December 31, 2016 including 132 days of operations.


38

Adjusted Property EBITDA was $1.81 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017, an increase of 43.8%, or $551.4 million, from $1.26 billion for the same period of 2016. The increase in Adjusted Property EBITDA was the result of increases of $424.5 million, $79.2 million, and $47.7 million from Wynn Palace, Wynn Macau and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, our net income attributable to Wynn Resorts, Limited was $242.0 million, or $2.38 per diluted share, an increase of 23.9%, or $46.7 million, compared to $195.3 million, or $1.92 per diluted share, for the same period of 2015. The increase in net income attributable to Wynn Resorts, Limited was primarily due to a loss on extinguishment of debt in 2015 that was not experienced in 2016.

Adjusted Property EBITDA was $1.26 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016, an increase of 6.2%, or $73.5 million, from $1.19 billion for the same period of 2015. The increase in Adjusted Property EBITDA was primarily due to the new operations associated with the opening of Wynn Palace, partially offset by a decrease of 3.8% from Wynn Macau driven by a decrease in business volumes.
 
Financial results for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to the year ended December 31, 2016.

Net revenues

The following table presents net revenues from our Macau and Las Vegas Operations (dollars in thousands): 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
Percent
Change
Net Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
Macau Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Wynn Macau
$
2,485,804

 
$
2,264,087

 
9.8
Wynn Palace (1)
2,139,154

 
583,336

 
266.7
             Total Macau Operations
4,624,958

 
2,847,423

 
62.4
   Las Vegas Operations
1,681,410

 
1,618,874

 
3.9
 
$
6,306,368

 
$
4,466,297

 
41.2
(1) Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

Net revenues increased 41.2%, or $1.84 billion, to $6.31 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $4.47 billion for the same period of 2016. The increase was the result of increases of $1.56 billion, $221.7 million and $62.5 million from Wynn Palace, Wynn Macau and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively.

Non-casino revenues consist of operating revenues from rooms, food and beverage, entertainment, retail and other, less promotional allowances. The following table presents net revenues from our casino revenues and non-casino revenues (dollars in thousands):
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
Percent
Change
Net revenues
 
 
 
 
 
Casino revenues
$
4,948,319

 
$
3,268,141

 
51.4
Non-casino revenues
1,358,049

 
1,198,156

 
13.3
 
$
6,306,368

 
$
4,466,297

 
41.2


39

Casino revenues were 78.5% of total net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to 73.2% for the same period of 2016, while non-casino revenues were 21.5% of total net revenues, compared to 26.8% for the same period of 2016.

Casino revenues

Casino revenues increased 51.4%, or $1.68 billion, to $4.95 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $3.27 billion for the same period of 2016. The increase was primarily due to increases of $1.45 billion, $225.0 million and $9.7 million from Wynn Palace, Wynn Macau and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively. The increase in casino revenues from Wynn Macau was primarily driven by a 23.9% increase in VIP turnover.

Prior to the opening of Wynn Palace, the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau of Macau authorized 100 new table games for operation at Wynn Palace with 25 additional table games authorized for operation on January 1, 2017, and a further 25 new table games for operation on January 1, 2018, for a total of 150 new table games in the aggregate. In addition, we have and will continue to transfer table games between Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace, subject to the aggregate cap, to optimize our casino operations. As of February 15, 2018, we had a total of 316 table games at Wynn Macau and 323 at Wynn Palace.


40

The table below sets forth our casino revenues and associated key operating measures for our Macau and Las Vegas Operations (dollars in thousands, except for win per unit per day).  
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
Increase/
(Decrease)
 
Percent
Change
Macau Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Wynn Macau:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total casino revenues
$
2,360,221

 
$
2,135,193

 
$
225,028

 
10.5

VIP:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
96

 
149

 
(53
)
 
(35.6
)
VIP turnover
$
58,303,836

 
$
47,048,754

 
$
11,255,082

 
23.9

Table games win
$
1,907,625

 
$
1,547,261

 
$
360,364

 
23.3

VIP win as a % of turnover
3.27
%
 
3.29
%
 
(0.02
)
 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
54,726

 
$
28,332

 
$
26,394

 
93.2

Mass market:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
204

 
216

 
(12
)
 
(5.6
)
Table drop
$
4,525,727

 
$
4,585,476

 
$
(59,749
)
 
(1.3
)
Table games win
$
880,964

 
$
881,797

 
$
(833
)
 
(0.1
)
Table games win %
19.5
%
 
19.2
%
 
0.3

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
11,820

 
$
11,131

 
$
689

 
6.2

Average number of slot machines
914

 
802

 
112

 
14.0

Slot machine handle
$
3,526,747

 
$
3,386,973

 
$
139,774

 
4.1

Slot machine win
$
154,425

 
$
145,680

 
$
8,745

 
6.0

Slot machine win per unit per day
$
463

 
$
497

 
$
(34
)
 
(6.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Wynn Palace (1):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total casino revenues
$
1,965,362

 
$
519,877

 
$
1,445,485

 
278.0

VIP:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
104

 
81

 
23

 
28.4

VIP turnover
$
52,573,258

 
$
14,480,023

 
$
38,093,235

 
263.1

Table games win
$
1,486,674

 
$
396,954

 
$
1,089,720

 
274.5

VIP win as a % of turnover
2.83
%
 
2.74
%
 
0.09

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
39,325

 
$
37,009

 
$
2,316

 
6.3

Mass market:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
202

 
245

 
(43
)
 
(17.6
)
Table drop
$
3,490,363

 
$
1,000,881

 
$
2,489,482

 
248.7

Table games win
$
795,159

 
$
211,146

 
$
584,013

 
276.6

Table games win %
22.8
%
 
21.1
%
 
1.7

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
10,759

 
$
6,527

 
$
4,232

 
64.8

Average number of slot machines
1,026

 
962

 
64

 
6.7

Slot machine handle
$
3,053,614

 
$
738,907

 
$
2,314,707

 
313.3

Slot machine win
$
165,754

 
$
40,664

 
$
125,090

 
307.6

Slot machine win per unit per day
$
443

 
$
320

 
$
123

 
38.4

  (1) Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.


41

 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
Increase/
(Decrease)
 
Percent
Change
Las Vegas Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total casino revenues
$
622,736

 
$
613,071

 
$
9,665

 
1.6

Average number of table games
236

 
235

 
1

 
0.4

Table drop
$
1,804,988

 
$
1,838,479

 
$
(33,491
)
 
(1.8
)
Table games win
$
465,664

 
$
465,041

 
$
623

 
0.1

Table games win %
25.8
%
 
25.3
%
 
0.5

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
5,415

 
$
5,406

 
$
9

 
0.2

Average number of slot machines
1,856

 
1,893

 
(37
)
 
(2.0
)
Slot machine handle
$
3,183,369

 
$
3,148,610

 
$
34,759

 
1.1

Slot machine win
$
218,897

 
$
208,024

 
$
10,873

 
5.2

Slot machine win per unit per day
$
323

 
$
300

 
$
23

 
7.7


Non-casino revenues

Non-casino revenues increased 13.3%, or $159.9 million, to $1.36 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $1.20 billion for the same period of 2016, primarily due to the increases of $110.3 million and $52.9 million from Wynn Palace and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively, partially offset by a decrease of $3.3 million from Wynn Macau.

Room revenues increased 16.7%, or $100.9 million, to $704.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $603.3 million for the same period of 2016, primarily due to increases of $92.1 million and $19.4 million from Wynn Palace and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively, partially offset by a decrease of $10.6 million from Wynn Macau. The increase experienced by our Las Vegas Operations was driven by an ADR increase of 3.0% and a 1.6 percentage point increase in occupancy, while the decrease from Wynn Macau was a result of an ADR decline of 12.3%, partially offset by a 3.1 percentage point increase in occupancy.

The table below sets forth our room revenues and associated key operating measures for our Macau and Las Vegas Operations. 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
Percent
Change (1)
Macau Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
   Wynn Macau:
 
 
 
 
 
Total room revenues (dollars in thousands)
$
101,242

 
$
111,817

 
(9.5
)
Occupancy
97.5
%
 
94.4
%
 
3.1

ADR
$
257

 
$
293

 
(12.3
)
REVPAR
$
251

 
$
277

 
(9.4
)
   Wynn Palace (2):
 
 
 
 
 
Total room revenues (dollars in thousands)
$
146,980

 
$
54,843

 
168.0

Occupancy
96.2
%
 
83.2
%
 
13.0

ADR
$
237

 
$
276

 
(14.1
)
REVPAR
$
227

 
$
230

 
(1.3
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Las Vegas Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Total room revenues (dollars in thousands)
$
455,980

 
$
436,613

 
4.4

Occupancy
86.9
%
 
85.3
%
 
1.6

ADR
$
305

 
$
296

 
3.0

REVPAR
$
265

 
$
252

 
5.2

(1)    Except occupancy, which is presented as a percentage point change.
(2)    Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

42


Food and beverage revenues increased 14.9%, or $89.4 million, to $690.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $601.5 million for the same period of 2016, primarily due to increases of $60.4 million and $32.0 million from Wynn Palace and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively, partially offset by a decrease of $3.1 million from Wynn Macau, respectively. The increase from our Las Vegas Operations was primarily driven by an increase in revenues at our nightclubs.

Entertainment, retail and other increased 16.9%, or $61.4 million, to $424.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $363.4 million for the same period of 2016, primarily due to $62.8 million from Wynn Palace.

Promotional allowances increased 24.8%, or $91.8 million, to $461.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $370.1 million for the same period of 2016. The increase was primarily due to an increase of $105.0 million from Wynn Palace, partially offset by decreases of $8.0 million and $5.2 million from Wynn Macau and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively. The decreases from Wynn Macau and our Las Vegas Operations were primarily a result of a greater percentage of cash-paying guests in our rooms and food and beverage outlets.

Operating expenses

Operating expenses increased 33.1%, or $1.31 billion, to $5.25 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $3.94 billion for the same period of 2016, primarily due to increases in casino expenses of $1.12 billion, depreciation and amortization of $147.6 million and general and administrative expenses of $137.3 million, partially offset by a decrease of $128.0 million in pre-opening expenses, all primarily related to the opening of Wynn Palace.

Casino expenses increased 53.8%, or $1.12 billion, to $3.20 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $2.08 billion for the same period of 2016, primarily due to increases of $975.1 million and $150.1 million from Wynn Palace and Wynn Macau, respectively. The increase at Wynn Macau was driven by gaming taxes, which increased commensurate with the 10.5% increase in casino revenues.

Room expenses increased 12.4%, or $19.6 million, to $177.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $157.9 million for the same period of 2016. The increase was primarily due to increases of $10.5 million and $9.7 million from our Las Vegas Operations and Wynn Palace, respectively, mainly attributable to expenses associated with the increase in occupancy and an increase in labor costs.

Food and beverage expenses increased 9.5%, or $35.6 million, to $410.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $375.2 million for the same period of 2016, primarily due to increases of $23.7 million and $16.8 million from Wynn Palace and our Las Vegas Operations, respectively. The increase from our Las Vegas Operations was primarily driven by increased labor costs.

Entertainment, retail and other expenses increased 10.0%, or $16.2 million, to $177.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $161.1 million for the same period of 2016, primarily related to Wynn Palace.

General and administrative expenses increased 25.1%, or $137.3 million, to $685.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $548.1 million for the same period of 2016, primarily related to Wynn Palace.

Provision for doubtful accounts was a benefit of $6.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to an expense of $8.2 million for the same period of 2016. The change was due to the collection of certain casino accounts receivable that resulted in the reversal of previously recorded allowance for doubtful accounts.

Pre-opening expenses were $26.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $154.7 million for the same period of 2016. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we incurred pre-opening expenses of $25.9 million related to Wynn Boston Harbor and $0.2 million related to our Las Vegas Operations. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we incurred $129.8 million related to Wynn Palace, $22.7 million related to Wynn Boston Harbor, and $2.3 million related to our Las Vegas Operations.

Depreciation and amortization increased 36.5%, or $147.6 million, to $552.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, from $404.7 million for the same period of 2016. The increase was primarily due to the opening of Wynn Palace with the associated building and furniture, fixtures and equipment being placed in service.

Property charges and other was $29.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $54.8 million for the same period of 2016. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we incurred $12.6 million and $6.7 million at Wynn Palace

43

and Wynn Macau, respectively, primarily due to abandonment charges and asset retirements associated with various renovation projects and estimated costs related to property damage caused by a typhoon that impacted Macau. In addition, we incurred $10.6 million in charges from our Las Vegas Operations primarily related to miscellaneous renovations. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we incurred a $15.5 million exit fee for the right to procure energy for our Las Vegas Operations from the wholesale energy markets instead of from the local public electric utility, $14.1 million for the write-down of the carrying value to the purchase price of an aircraft we sold in January 2017, $10.1 million in abandonment charges related to current construction of additional retail space at our Las Vegas Operations and $5.5 million for the write-off of show production costs due to the closing of Steve Wynn's ShowStoppers in December 2016.

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

The following table summarizes information related to interest expense (dollars in thousands):
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
Percent
Change
Interest expense
 
 
 
 
 
Interest cost, including amortization of debt issuance costs and original issue discount and premium
$
407,098

 
$
383,497

 
6.2

Capitalized interest
(18,434
)
 
(94,132
)
 
(80.4
)
 
$
388,664

 
$
289,365

 
34.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average total debt balance
$
10,031,005

 
$
9,564,845

 
 
Weighted average interest rate
4.06
%
 
4.00
%
 
 

Interest cost increased $23.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to the same period of 2016, primarily due to an increase in our weighted average total debt balance from borrowings under the Wynn America Credit Facilities. Capitalized interest decreased $75.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to the same period of 2016, primarily due to the completion of Wynn Palace construction activities in August 2016 and a $25.6 million out-of-period adjustment recorded in the first quarter of 2016. During the first quarter of 2016, we corrected immaterial amounts of additional interest that should have been capitalized instead of being expensed during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

Other non-operating income and expenses

We incurred a loss of $59.7 million and a gain of $65.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, from the change in fair value of the Redemption Note. The change in fair value was a result of changes in certain variables used to calculate the estimated fair value. For further information on the fair value of the Redemption Note, see Item 8—"Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," Note 2, "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies."

We incurred a loss of $55.4 million on the extinguishment of debt for the year ended December 31, 2017. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we completed a cash tender offer and subsequent redemption of our 5 3/8% First Mortgage Notes due 2022 (the "2022 Notes") and issued our 5 1/4% Senior Notes due 2027 (the "2027 WLV Notes"). We also completed a cash tender offer and subsequent redemption of our 5 1/4% Senior Notes ("2021 Notes") and issued our 4 7/8% Senior Notes due 2024 (the "2024 WML Notes") and 5 1/2% Senior Notes due 2027 (the "2027 WML Notes"), together (the "WML Notes"). We recorded losses on extinguishment of debt of $20.8 million in connection with the 2022 Notes and 2027 WLV Notes transactions and $33.1 million in connection with the WML Notes transactions. Additionally, in connection with an amendment of our Wynn America credit facilities, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of $1.5 million. We incurred no losses from the extinguishment of debt for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Interest income was $31.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $13.5 million for the same period of 2016. During the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, our short-term investment strategy was to preserve capital while retaining sufficient liquidity. The majority of our short-term investment amounts were in time deposits, fixed deposits and money market accounts with maturities of three months or less.

We incurred losses of $21.7 million and $0.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, from foreign currency remeasurements. The losses were primarily due to the impact of the exchange rate fluctuation of the Macau

44

pataca, in relation to the U.S. dollar, on the remeasurements of U.S. dollar denominated debt and other obligations from our Macau-related entities.

Income Taxes
For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, we recorded a tax benefit of $329.0 million and a tax expense of $8.1 million, respectively. Our income tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 2017 primarily relates to a provisional tax benefit of $339.9 million resulting from the impact of U.S. tax reform on the Company's deferred taxes. Our income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 primarily related to an increase in our deferred tax liabilities.
Wynn Macau SA received a five-year exemption from the Macau Complementary Tax on casino gaming profits through December 31, 2020. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, we were exempt from the payment of $63.0 million and $27.3 million, respectively, in such taxes. Our non-gaming profits remain subject to the Macau Complementary Tax and casino winnings remain subject to the Macau special gaming tax and other levies together totaling 39% in accordance with our concession agreement.
In August 2016, Wynn Macau SA received an extension of its agreement with the Macau government that provides for an annual payment of 12.8 million Macau patacas (approximately $1.6 million) as complementary tax due by stockholders on dividend distributions. This agreement on dividends is effective through December 31, 2020.
We have participated in the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") Compliance Assurance Program ("CAP") for the 2012 through 2017 tax years and will continue to participate in the IRS CAP for the 2018 tax year. In February 2017 and 2018, the IRS completed an examination of our 2015 and 2016 U.S. tax return, respectively, and had no changes.

In March 2017, the Financial Services Bureau commenced an examination of the 2013 and 2014 Macau income tax returns of Wynn Macau SA. As of December 31, 2017, based upon the current status of the examination, we believe no changes to the unrecognized tax benefits are required.

In July 2017, the Financial Services Bureau commenced an examination of the 2013 and 2014 Macau income tax returns of Palo Real Estate Company Limited ("Palo"), a subsidiary of Wynn Macau SA. In February 2018, the Financial Services Bureau concluded its examination with no changes.

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests was $142.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $60.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. These amounts are primarily related to the noncontrolling interests' share of net income from WML.

Financial results for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015.

Net Revenues

The following table presents net revenues from our Macau and Las Vegas Operations (dollars in thousands): 
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
Percent
Change
Net revenues
 
 
 
 
 
Macau Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Wynn Macau
$
2,264,087

 
$
2,463,092

 
(8.1
)
Wynn Palace (1)
583,336

 
—

 
—

            Total Macau Operations
2,847,423

 
2,463,092

 
15.6

Las Vegas Operations
1,618,874

 
1,612,791

 
0.4

 
$
4,466,297

 
$
4,075,883

 
9.6

(1) Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

Net revenues increased 9.6%, or $390.4 million, to $4.47 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $4.08 billion for the same period of 2015. The increase was primarily due to $583.3 million from Wynn Palace and an increase of $6.1 million from our Las Vegas Operations, partially offset by a decrease of $199.0 million from Wynn Macau.

45


The following table presents net revenues from our casino revenues and non-casino revenues (dollars in thousands):

 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
Percent
Change
Net revenues
 
 
 
 
 
Casino revenues
$
3,268,141

 
$
2,932,419

 
11.4
Non-casino revenues
1,198,156

 
1,143,464

 
4.8
 
$
4,466,297

 
$
4,075,883

 
9.6

Casino revenues were 73.2% of total net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to 71.9% of total net revenues for the same period of 2015, while non-casino revenues were 26.8% of total net revenues, compared to 28.1% for the same period of 2015.

Casino Revenues

Casino revenues increased 11.4%, or $335.7 million, to $3.27 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $2.93 billion in the same period of 2015. The increase was primarily due to casino revenues of $519.9 million from Wynn Palace, partially offset by a $177.7 million decrease from Wynn Macau. The decline in casino revenues from Wynn Macau was driven by a decrease in business volumes from both our VIP and mass market operations, with decreases in VIP turnover of 18.8%, table drop of 5.6% and slot handle of 14.5%. The business volume decrease for Wynn Macau was primarily driven by the impact from the economic and political conditions in Macau and China, as well as from resort openings in the Cotai area of Macau, including Wynn Palace. We experienced a VIP win as a percentage of turnover of 3.29% for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to 2.87% for the same period of 2015, which partially offset the business volume decrease in our VIP operations.

Prior to the opening of Wynn Palace, the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau of Macau authorized 100 new table games for operation at Wynn Palace with 25 additional table games authorized for operation on January 1, 2017, and a further 25 new table games for operation on January 1, 2018, for a total of 150 new table games in the aggregate. In addition, we have and will continue to transfer table games between Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace, subject to the aggregate cap, to optimize our casino operations.

46

The table below sets forth our casino revenues and associated key operating measures for our Macau and Las Vegas Operations (dollars in thousands, except for win per unit per day).

 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
Increase/
(Decrease)
 
Percent
Change
Macau Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Wynn Macau:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total casino revenues
$
2,135,193

 
$
2,312,925

 
$
(177,732
)
 
(7.7
)
VIP:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
149

 
230

 
(81
)
 
(35.2
)
VIP turnover
$
47,048,754

 
$
57,917,060

 
$
(10,868,306
)
 
(18.8
)
Table games win
$
1,547,261

 
$
1,659,683

 
$
(112,422
)
 
(6.8
)
VIP win as a % of turnover
3.29
%
 
2.87
%
 
0.42

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
28,332

 
$
19,785

 
$
8,547

 
43.2

Mass market:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
216

 
228

 
(12
)
 
(5.3
)
Table drop
$
4,585,476

 
$
4,857,804

 
$
(272,328
)
 
(5.6
)
Table games win
$
881,797

 
$
951,458

 
$
(69,661
)
 
(7.3
)
Table games win %
19.2
%
 
19.6
%
 
(0.4
)
 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
11,131

 
$
11,431

 
$
(300
)
 
(2.6
)
Average number of slot machines
802

 
708

 
94

 
13.3

Slot machine handle
$
3,386,973

 
$
3,961,115

 
$
(574,142
)
 
(14.5
)
Slot machine win
$
145,680

 
$
191,164

 
$
(45,484
)
 
(23.8
)
Slot machine win per unit per day
$
497

 
$
740

 
$
(243
)
 
(32.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Wynn Palace (1):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total casino revenues
$
519,877

 
$
—

 
$
519,877

 
—

VIP:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
81

 
—

 
81

 
—

VIP turnover
$
14,480,023

 
$
—

 
$
14,480,023

 
—

Table games win
$
396,954

 
$
—

 
$
396,954

 
—

VIP win as a % of turnover
2.74
%
 
—
%
 
2.74

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
37,009

 
$
—

 
$
37,009

 
—

Mass market:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average number of table games
245

 
—

 
245

 
—

Table drop
$
1,000,881

 
$
—

 
$
1,000,881

 
—

Table games win
$
211,146

 
$
—

 
$
211,146

 
—

Table games win %
21.1
%
 
—
%
 
21.1

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
6,527

 
$
—

 
$
6,527

 
—

Average number of slot machines
962

 
—

 
962

 
—

Slot machine handle
$
738,907

 
$
—

 
$
738,907

 
—

Slot machine win
$
40,664

 
$
—

 
$
40,664

 
—

Slot machine win per unit per day
$
320

 
$
—

 
$
320

 
—

(1) Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

47


 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
Increase/
(Decrease)
 
Percent
Change
Las Vegas Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total casino revenues
$
613,071

 
$
619,494

 
$
(6,423
)
 
(1.0
)
Average number of table games
235

 
232

 
3

 
1.3

Table drop
$
1,838,479

 
$
2,060,189

 
$
(221,710
)
 
(10.8
)
Table games win
$
465,041

 
$
490,920

 
$
(25,879
)
 
(5.3
)
Table games win %
25.3
%
 
23.8
%
 
1.5

 
 
Table games win per unit per day
$
5,406

 
$
5,786

 
$
(380
)
 
(6.6
)
Average number of slot machines
1,893

 
1,866

 
27

 
1.4

Slot machine handle
$
3,148,610

 
$
2,969,327

 
$
179,283

 
6.0

Slot machine win
$
208,024

 
$
206,626

 
$
1,398

 
0.7

Slot machine win per unit per day
$
300

 
$
303

 
$
(3
)
 
(1.0
)

Non-casino revenues

Non-casino revenues increased 4.8%, or $54.7 million, to $1.20 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $1.14 billion for the same period of 2015, primarily due to the opening of Wynn Palace during the third quarter of 2016 and an increase of 5.7% in room revenue from our Las Vegas Operations, partially offset by a 14.4% decrease in non-casino revenues at Wynn Macau.

Room revenues increased 12.0%, or $64.8 million, to $603.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $538.5 million for the same period of 2015, primarily due to $54.8 million from Wynn Palace and an increase of $23.5 million from our Las Vegas Operations, partially offset by a decrease of $13.5 million from Wynn Macau. The increase experienced by our Las Vegas Operations was driven by an ADR increase of 3.9% while the decrease from Wynn Macau was the result of an ADR decline of 9.3% and a 2.1 percentage point decrease in occupancy.


48

The table below sets forth our room revenues and associated key operating measures for our Macau and Las Vegas Operations.
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
Percent
Change (1)
Macau Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
   Wynn Macau:
 
 
 
 
 
Total room revenues (dollars in thousands)
$
111,817

 
$
125,348

 
(10.8
)
Occupancy
94.4
%
 
96.5
%
 
(2.1
)
ADR
$
293

 
$
323

 
(9.3
)
REVPAR
$
277

 
$
312

 
(11.2
)
   Wynn Palace (2):
 
 
 
 
 
Total room revenues (dollars in thousands)
$
54,843

 
$
—

 
—

Occupancy
83.2
%
 
—
%
 
—

ADR
$
276

 
$
—

 
—

REVPAR
$
230

 
$
—

 
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
Las Vegas Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Total room revenues (dollars in thousands)
$
436,613

 
$
413,152

 
5.7

Occupancy
85.3
%
 
85.2
%
 
0.1

ADR
$
296

 
$
285

 
3.9

REVPAR
$
252

 
$
243

 
3.7

(1)    Except occupancy, which is presented as a percentage point change.
(2)    Wynn Palace opened on August 22, 2016.

Food and beverage revenues increased 0.7%, or $4.4 million, to $601.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $597.1 million for the same period of 2015, primarily due to $27.1 million from Wynn Palace, partially offset by decreases of $12.0 million and $10.7 million from our Las Vegas Operations and Wynn Macau, respectively. The decrease at our Las Vegas Operations was primarily due to a decline in revenues at our nightclubs and the decrease from Wynn Macau was mainly from a decline in revenues at our restaurants.

Entertainment, retail and other increased 3.7%, or $12.8 million, to $363.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from $350.6 million for the same period of